Roger Alton

Eddie Jones must go

Getty images

So should he stay or should he go? That’s Eddie ‘I don’t really care what other people think’ Jones, currently ruling the roost over England rugby at Twickenham. Though for how long is another matter. Clearly the language around Jones is changing: the announcement of a review of England’s dismal recent performances very clearly avoided any of the usual ‘We stand right behind the coach’ and ‘We are pleased with the team’s steady progress’ guff that normally sugarcoats such statements. The review of course is largely anonymous, in keeping with English rugby’s characteristic transparency.

If the RFU was as responsive to polling as politicians are, Eddie would have his P45 by Christmas

But if the Rugby Football Union was as responsive to polling as politicians are, Eddie would be getting his P45 before Christmas. If a show of hands in the hospitality areas at Twickenham after the weekend’s dire loss to a mighty South Africa is anything to go by, there is a substantial change in the air. The feeling has gone from a narrow majority in favour of him continuing to 70-30 against. And these are the long-suffering stalwarts of Guildford and Godalming 2nd XV, for instance, who remain devoted to English rugby, even as the price of a seat goes through the roof and the time the ball is in play through the floor.

With its awful stop-start rhythm, time-wasting and interminable scrum resets, Saturday’s game was not one to remember. But the fact remains that many highly talented players are failing to replicate for their country the exuberance, ambition and thrilling skills that they show week after week for their club sides in the Gallagher Premiership. And it’s not enough to say that Test rugby is different. Sure it is. But England’s cricketers play for their country with a breathtaking fearlessness you don’t see so much in the county game.

Already a subscriber? Log in

Keep reading with a free trial

Subscribe and get your first month of online and app access for free. After that it’s just £1 a week.

There’s no commitment, you can cancel any time.

Or

Unlock more articles

REGISTER

Comments

Don't miss out

Join the conversation with other Spectator readers. Subscribe to leave a comment.

Already a subscriber? Log in