Eddie Jones to replace Dave Rennie as Wallabies coach

The Wallabies have confirmed Eddie Jones will replace Dave Rennie as coach.

The announcement was made on Monday, with Rennie stepping down from the role he took over after the 2019 World Cup.

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“I would like to thank Dave for his hard work and effort with the Wallabies – we are grateful for all that he has done for Australian Rugby,” RA CEO Andy Marinos said in a statement.

“Dave has been instrumental in developing much of the depth that we see in and around the current Wallabies squad; there are a number of players that are genuine World Cup possibilities because of opportunities that Dave has provided.

“The work ethic, the spirit within the group, and the way the team carries itself are all a direct result of Dave’s input – he has made a real mark on this group of players.”

Jones steps into the role at the end of January, signing a five-year deal with Rugby Australia, taking him through until the 2027 World Cup.

This will see the former England boss oversee both the Wallabies and Wallaroos program.

Jones returns to the role he held in 2001 after he was dismissed as England coach in December.

“It is a major coup for Australian Rugby to have the best coach in the world return home to coach the iconic Wallabies and to oversee the Wallaroos program,” RA Chairman Hamish McLennan added.

“Eddie’s deep understanding of our Rugby system and knowledge of our player group and pathways will lift the team to the next level.

“Eddie instinctively understands the Australian way of playing Rugby – this represents an opportunity to secure a coach of immense expertise and experience at the biggest competitions, and we did not want to miss it.”

The 62-year-old was excited about the chance to return to Australia and coach the national side.

“It is a wonderful opportunity for me to be able to come home to Australia and lead my nation to a Rugby World Cup,” he said.

“It is going to be an immense period for Australian Rugby – as a proud Australian, it is a great honour to be able to come home and lead the national team during these years.

“The Wallabies squad is a really talented group of players with good depth – if we can have everyone fit and healthy going into the World Cup this year, I am confident that we can go to France and break the 24-year drought of winning the Rugby World Cup.

“I saw how gutsy the Wallaroos were in the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand last year – it looks like there is a real spirit in that group that will drive the women’s program forward ahead of their next World Cup in 2025.

“I am really looking forward to getting back home and getting stuck in.”