Co-captain Ellis Genge said England will have their wits about them for former boss Eddie Jones as the Australian returns to Twickenham with Japan for Sunday’s clash.
Jones, sacked by England in 2022, led the team to a 73% win record during his tenure. Now coaching Japan, the ex-Wallabies coach aims to mastermind another upset on familiar ground.
Genge, who made his Test debut under Jones in 2016, acknowledged the veteran tactician’s unpredictable nature and brilliance.
“Knowing Eddie, he will probably take the game personally. He’ll have a few trick plays up his sleeve and have his players fired up. I’d love to be a fly on the wall of the Japan changing room,” Genge said.
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Reflecting on Jones’ success with Japan, including their shock victory over South Africa at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, Genge added: “You’ve got to have your wits about you when you play against him.”
Despite Jones’ divisive reputation, the prop praised his psychological acumen. “He’s a master of the psychological part of player development and man management.
“Sometimes he gets it wrong, and there have been some nightmare stories about him. But he’s a good bloke, man. He’s a good guy,” Genge said.
However, the front-row powerhouse doesn’t expect a warm reception for Jones from the Twickenham crowd. “I can’t imagine he’s going to get a cheer when he goes on camera, but he’ll love that part of it,” Genge remarked.
“He’ll relish it. It will be all part of the day for him.”
Photo: Toru Hanai/Getty Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
