NRL great reunited with Eddie Jones for Wallabies’ Rugby World Cup campaign
Jason Ryles during his time as England's attack coach in 2020.
The Wallabies have moved quickly to replace Brad Davis as their attack coach with Jason Ryles confirmed to join their backroom staff in that role for the Rugby World Cup.
Ryles’ appointment comes after it was confirmed on Thursday that Davis has resigned from the position before the Wallabies’ departure to participate in the global showpiece in France.
Well known in rugby league
Ryles is well known in rugby league as he played in 271 games in the NRL and also represented Australia and New South Wales in the 13-man code, before turning to coaching.
Since his retirement as a plyer, he had stints as an assistant coach at the Melbourne Storm and Sydney Roosters before being joining Wallabies boss Eddie Jones during his time as England’s head coach, in 2020.
“I would like to thank Brad for his efforts this year, and we wish him all the best for his future,” Jones said in a statement.
“Jason is the most sought-after coach in the NRL. He will add immensely to our coaching staff and help prepare the players to win the Rugby World Cup.
“We are thrilled to have him join the team.”
Ryles’ recruitment is a major coup for the Wallabies as he has emerged as one of the most promising coaches in rugby league and rugby union.
The 44-year-old, who had stints as a player with St. George Illawarra Dragons, the Storm and Roosters in the NRL, was earmarked as the Dragons’ next head coach but turned them down.
Ryles is seen as next in line to take over from legendary coach Craig Bellamy at the Melbourne Storm and is set to rejoin the club as an assistant in 2024.
Limited involvement with England
Despite working under Jones with England in 2020, his involvement was limited due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
After Davis’ shock resignation on the eve of the Wallabies’ departure for France, Jones hinted that he already had a replacement in line by saying: “There’s a potential candidate ready to step up so I think we’ll improve the coaching staff.”
READ MORE: WATCH: Eddie Jones fumes at journalists – You ought to give yourselves uppercuts’