Joseph to replace Jones as Japan coach

Cape Town - Highlanders coach and former All Black Jamie Joseph is set to be named as Eddie Jones’ successor as Japan coach.

According to the NZ Herald website, Joseph’s appointment is expected to be made official within the next few days.

This follows the appointment of another former All Black, Mark Hammett, as the head coach of Japan’s new Super Rugby team, the Sunwolves.

Joseph played as a lock and loose forward for the All Blacks at the 1995 Rugby World Cup and Japan at the 1999 tournament before starting his coaching career with Wellington, the Maori All Blacks then the Highlanders from 2011.

He led the Dunedin-based franchise to their maiden Super Rugby title last year.

Joseph has big boots to fill as Japan head coach, after Jones led them to three World Cup wins this year, including an upset win over the Springboks.

Jones has since moved on to become England's head coach.