John Mitchell joins Japan coaching staff ahead of 2023 Rugby World Cup

Former All Blacks head coach and England assistant coach John Mitchell will return to Test rugby with Japan under head coach Jamie Joseph.

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Mitchell has been appointed as Japan’s new defence coach.

Japan have been drawn in the same pool as England for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

Japan will face England at the 2023 Rugby World Cup

Japan and England will face each other in the Pool D opener in Nice next year.

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The 57-year-old signed a two-year contract with England in 2021, only to leave Eddie Jones’ coaching staff a few months later and take up a role as Gallagher Premiership side Wasps’ attack coach.

Mitchell will continue to perform his Wasps duties while coaching Japan.

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Mitchell has a coaching CV longer than most.

At one point in his career he’s either coached or been an assistant at: Ireland, Sale Sharks, England, Wasps, Waikato, Chiefs, New Zealand, Western Force, Golden Lions, Lions, University of KwaZulu-Natal, United States, Bulls and Blue Bulls.

“I would like to thank Lee [Blackett] and the club for their co-operation in allowing me to combine this role with the work I’m already doing at Wasps,” said Mitchell.

“This is a great opportunity to add value to Japan winning test matches through them loving their defence and understanding how it plays a critical part in the way we want to attack.

“I am grateful to be working with Jamie Joseph, Tony Brown, Scott Hansen, Shin Hasegawa and the outstanding coaching group preparing for the RWC 2023 in France.”

I’m delighted to be joining @JRFURugby and linking up with Jamie, Tony, Scott and the rest of the coaching group & players ahead of the RWC.
 
I’d also like to thank Lee and @WaspsRugby for their continued support and co-operation

— John Mitchell (@mfactorcoaching) February 18, 2022