TOP NEWS: England poach Springbok assistant coach

Felix Jones has been confirmed as England’s new defence coach, after Steve Borthwick announced that Kevin Sinfield is to leave after their 2024 tour of Japan and New Zealand.

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Jones’ move to the England coaching setup was announced in 2023 but the specifics of his new role were made official on Thursday. The Irishman is fresh from helping South Africa win back-to-back World Cup titles last year.

Sinfield has been Borthwick’s deputy since the former England captain took charge of the national side in December 2022 following the sacking of Eddie Jones.

The rugby league great, previously in charge of England’s defence, will now have responsibility for individual skills and work with the squad’s kickers.

“Kevin after the World Cup [in 2023] had a period of reflection, like every member of the management team did,” said Borthwick.

“Ahead of the autumn series, Kev will not work with the team then, he will move away from the team and in a different direction.”

Borthwick added: “Kev’s role and what he’s added as we’ve reset the team, you can’t overstate the value he’s brought, what he’s done and the relationships he’s built.”

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England also announced that New Zealand’s Andrew Strawbridge would join their staff for the first few weeks of the Six Nations.

The 59-year-old former Chiefs boss, a skills consultant to the All Blacks side that were runners-up at the World Cup, will be a consultant for matches against Italy, Wales and Scotland in February. England also face Ireland and France the following month.

“Andrew is another coach with a wealth of knowledge,” said Borthwick.

FELIX JONES HAS TRADED THE SPRINGBOKS FOR ENGLAND