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'They are very serious about it' - Two clubs chasing Eddie Jones

By Ian Cameron
Eddie Jones - PA

At least two NRL clubs are said to be after the signature of sacked England head coach Eddie Jones.

Earlier this month Jones was dismissed by the RFU after seven years in charge following a dismal autumn campaign which concluded the nation's worst year since 2008.

The 62-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to the rugby league and the NRL in Australia. An Australian radio station has now said that inquiries have now been made about the maverick rugby thinker.

“I can confirm two NRL clubs have made serious inquiries about luring Eddie Jones to the NRL to coach their clubs,” Michelle Bishop Bishop told SEN radio.

“They’re investigating the possibility and they are very serious about it.

“He is no stranger to the game. He had a lot to do with rugby league in his earlier days. I see Eddie Jones as a Bellamy, Bennett, Meninga, good with people and being able to get that side of the job done.

“If he gets the right people around him, I would be excited to be at that rugby league club. I’m a fan.”

It was revealed last week that Jones would be making an early return to Twickenham, namely in May to coach the Barbarians against a World XV.

Jones previously coached the Barbarians in a 33-31 defeat by Fiji in 2019.

He will take on a world side coached by former All Blacks boss Steve Hansen on May 28, with the Killik Cup on the line.

"I am very much looking forward to returning to Twickenham Stadium - a venue I have so many fond memories of - as head coach of the Barbarians, and I'm more motivated than ever to put on a show," Jones said in a statement.

"Going up against Steve rekindles a great rivalry which first started in our days competing in Super Rugby and progressed into the international arena. It'll be a great challenge and one I'm sure we're both relishing."

Rugby Australia are also said to be in hot pursuit of Jones, with rumours that current Wallabies head coach Dave Rennie is looking at his options after another mixed year at the helm.