Share

Japanese coach hits out at Eddie Jones

Tokyo - Outgoing Japan coach Eddie Jones was selfish to detract from World Cup preparations by making public his negotiations with other teams, the head coach of a domestic club said on Wednesday.

Jones revealed on Tuesday he would step down as Japan boss following the September 18-October 31 tournament in England and Wales after revealing last week he was "chatting" to the Stormers about a role.

Katsuyuki Kiyomiya, who coaches top flight side Yamaha Jubilo and worked alongside Jones previously at Suntory Sungoliath, accused the former Australia boss of lacking respect.

"You have to wonder about the timing of the announcement," Kiyomiya told Nikkan Sports.

"It's not something you do just before the start of the World Cup.

"It's outrageous for him to be thinking about his next job when he's got the World Cup right in front of him. He must think we're all fools."

Kyodo News said that Kiyomiya had long declared his interest in succeeding Jones.

Japan, whose only World Cup win came in 1991 against Zimbabwe, have been drawn in Group B for the tournament alongside South Africa, Samoa, Scotland and the United States.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE