Eddie Jones abruptly left ITV’s coverage of the Six Nations after England’s sensational victory over France. The New Zealander provided punditry for Saturday’s game at Twickenham but will not be involved in the broadcaster’s schedule for the remainder of the tournament.
Jones was a marquee hire by ITV for England’s Six Nations fixtures, having been sacked by the Red Roses in late 2022. Some of his former players had criticised his management style.
He had initially been lined up by the broadcaster for the 2023 Six Nations series, only to then begin an ill-fated reign in charge of Australia. Jones has coached Japan since January 2024.
The 64-year-old ran the rule over England’s stunning win against France. Steve Borthwick’s side left it late at Twickenham, with Elliot Daly’s try coming in the last minute.
Towards the end of ITV’s broadcast, presenter Mark Pougatch confirmed that Jones would not feature on-screen for the remainder of the competition. He said that Jones will now head to Japan to focus on his coaching duties. Japan’s next scheduled match comes against Wales on July 12.
Jones said of England’s performance against France: “They are on the threshold of being a really good team. What they have to make sure is that they take the learnings from this and reinforce how to handle the difficult moments in the game. How to get on the front foot and not go into their shells.”
England fans were keen to see how Jones would speak about his former team. Writing in his autobiography, former fly-half Danny Care alleged that Jones ran a “dictatorship” during his seven years in charge and behaved like a “despot who disappeared people” by bullying staff members and players.
Jones subsequently quipped that he would write his own memoir and name it “Caring about Care”.
Meanwhile, England secured a dramatic 26-25 victory over France on Saturday. Daly went over in the final minute before Fin Smith converted. The 22-year-old had taken over kicking duties from Marcus Smith, who missed a conversion and a penalty.
Borthwick – who had been Jones’ assistant for a number of years – said of his side’s display: “As ever, you want things to happen instantly. This England team is going to be a very good team, it’s such a young team. Their ceiling is so high.
“Today you saw some things improved, you saw their bravery on the ball. They scored four tries against a brilliant French defence.”
