Cheslin Kolbe. image via Instagram @cheslinkolbe
Springbok star inspires Eddie Jones’ Japan scouting
Japan coach Eddie Jones wants to find players that fit the same profile as a double Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok star.
Cheslin Kolbe. image via Instagram @cheslinkolbe
It’s only a matter of finding stars in Japan that fit Cheslin Kolbe’s profile, according to seasoned coach Eddie Jones who recently took over as the national team coach.
In 2024, Jones will take the helm of the Brave Blossoms for the second time as head coach of Japan. He will cherish his initial stint with the team, which included leading them to their most well-known victory—a victory over the Springboks in the Rugby World Cup of 2015.
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The Australian-born coach’s next move was to become England’s head coach, a position he held for seven years during which the side won three Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam.
Jones will have to convince his detractors that he isn’t a spent force in international coaching after a shambolic end to his England tenure and a disastrous and short time in charge of the Wallabies.
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Cheslin Kolbe Springbok star inspiring Eddie Jones
The coach is delighted that Kolbe will be turning out in Japan as it will give him a mesuring stick to judge Top League talents by.
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“He’s as strong as an ox, he’s as fast as a cheetah, and he’s as elusive as a ninja – that’s how Japanese players can be,” he said according to Planet Rugby.
“He’s a fantastic example, so what we want to find is players who can be like him, and they’re out there.”
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Forging a strong identity for the Brave Blossoms
Jones hopes to build on the firm identity for Japan rugby that has emerged in recent seasons.
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“Any great team in any sport, it doesn’t matter what shirt they play in, you can clearly see the team that they are.”
“I think we need to develop that with Japan, so that’s going to be one of the major focuses going forward.”
