Lucky Mdluli
One of the highlights – or would that be low lights? – of the 2019 Rugby World Cup final, was the sulking England players after they were completely outplayed by South Africa. They even refused to wear the runners-up medals, preferring to stand around mumbling among themselves.
On Saturday, the England players were beaten by Wales in a match marred by controversy – and once again the players in the white jerseys seemed to be pouting and scowling as they shook hands with their opponents.
On the other hand, Wales was magnanimous in victory, especially seeing as they’ve pulled off the Rugby Triple Crown (beating Ireland, Scotland and England in one season).
Perhaps England was robbed, but the fact is they also lost to Scotland in this year’s Six Nations, which begs the question: is coach Eddie Jones losing his touch?
There was a time when Eddie Jones seemed to walk on water, where he could do no wrong. Jones coached Japan in the 2015 World Cup when the Blossoms beat the Springboks in perhaps the greatest upset in international rugby history. He had signed on as Western Province coach after that, but was headhunted by England who clearly had a bigger cheque book than Province.
Jones insists that he backs his players. He is often heard saying that they have few things to sort out and that they will soon be on top again.
Soon? Which is when?
No doubt, Warren Gatland, coach of the 2021 British and Irish Lions that will tour South Africa, must also be wondering when Jones will get his England team together.
Picture source: @BBCSportWales
