- Eddie Jones was a major omission in a Wallabies video
- The 63-year-old has been linked with a shock exit from Australia
- Japanese media claims he is on the verge of abandoning the Wallabies
The Wallabies have released a video thanking fans for their support during the World Cup, but there is no sign of Eddie Jones in a major telling sign over the coach’s future.
Jones oversaw a disastrous campaign for the Australians who crashed out in the group stages following defeats to Fiji and Wales in France.
The former England manager returned to Australia just nine months ago but his future is clouded by uncertainty due to links to the vacant Japan head coaching job.
Jones reportedly had a secret interview before the tournament kicked off, while Japanese media claim he is expected to abandon the Wallabies for the Brave Blossoms imminently.
And a video released by Rugby Australia provided another sign that Jones may not be at the helm for much longer.
Eddie Jones was notably absent in a video released by the Wallabies
A message from captain Will Skelton was posted on the Wallabies Twitter page, thanking Australian fans for their support during the doomed tournament.
While the video saw comments from fans criticizing them for the tone-deaf nature of the clip, eagle-eyed viewers spotted a major omission in the editing.
There was no Eddie Jones.
Jones strongly denied the Japan links while Rugby Australia supported the coach when the story first broke, but reports in Japan claim confidence in the 63-year-old has deteriorated since their departure.
Ahead of the Japanese report, Jones privately reassured rugby boss Phil Waugh of his commitment to the Wallabies job, while his assistant Pierre-Henry Broncan said Jones would only stay if he saw real potential for growth.
“If he can’t afford it or if he feels that things will continue as before, it will be difficult for him to stay,” he said. “If he senses a real desire from Rugby Australia to create a high performance environment, I think he will be there.”
The 63-year-old is expected to ditch Australia for the Japan job.
Jones coached Japan from 2012 to 2015 and oversaw a miracle World Cup campaign, in which they beat South Africa.
He is married to a Japanese woman and has a close relationship with Japanese rugby chief Masato Tsuchida.
Asked about initial ties to Japan, Jones replied: “I don’t know what you’re talking about, buddy.
“I am offended by people who question my commitment to working in Australia.”
