Springboks great joins Eddie Jones’ Japan coaching team

Springboks legend Victor Matfield has confirmed that he will work with Eddie Jones as a consultant with Japan.

Following a poor stint as the Wallabies head coach, Jones was unveiled as Jamie Joseph’s successor in December last year, taking charge of the Brave Blossoms for a second time.

Eddie Jones adds Victor Matfield to his staff

The former England boss has now recruited the help of South Africa’s most capped Springbok of all-time, who represented his country on 127 occasions.

Matfield was renowned for his lineout expertise during his playing days and, following his retirement, has often assisted teams with the set-piece.

He has previously worked with the Bulls and Lions and helped Portugal prepare for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

More recently, the ex-Springboks captain revealed that he assisted Johann van Graan at Bath and will now work as a consultant with Jones and Japan.

“It’s nice to get involved on an international level and work with Eddie,” Matfield told the Rapport. “I’ve often said that I’m a big fan of Eddie.”

The former second-rower worked with Jones during the latter’s stint as Suntory Sungoliath’s head coach and was set to join the Australian’s coaching staff when he was hired as the Stormers boss back in 2012, but Jones opted for England instead.

“It was nice to help Johann at Bath. However, this position with Eddie is more formal,” Matfield added.

“I will fly to Japan twice to be involved in the Japanese camp there for two weeks before their Tests.

“I will also do weekly analysis of the opposition teams for Japan and forward plans.”

Rassie Erasmus praised by former All Black for latest addition to Springboks coaching staff

Still available to the Springboks

The Springboks legend added that he is looking forward to working with Jones again, who coached Matfield during the 2007 World Cup, and hopes that it will lead to more coaching opportunities in the future.

“I have always dreamed of one day becoming involved with the Springboks full-time and coaching there,” he said.

“This position with Japan suits me perfectly because of business interests and home life, I will course be available at any to get involved with the Boks.

“This is an incredible opportunity for me to stay involved and stay relevant in the game. The game has moved on, and you have to keep up with the new way of doing things.”

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