‘Traitor’ Jones to help Boks

EDDIE JONES has been confirmed as technical advisor to the South Africa national side until the end of their World Cup campaign.

The former Australia coach, who was at the helm of the Wallabies during their 2003 World Cup final defeat, fills the post which was left vacant following the appointment of Rassie Erasmus as the professional coach to Western Province Rugby.

Andy Marinos, the manager of national teams at SA Rugby, believes the appointment of Jones will be beneficial for the Springboks.

“He brings with him a wealth of international experience and knowledge, notwithstanding that Eddie was also the Australian coach when the Wallabies lost narrowly to England in the 2003 Rugby World Cup Final,” said Marinos.

“We believe that his vast knowledge of the game and his outstanding coaching credentials will be of great benefit and significance to the Springboks.”

Jones has been lambasted in his home country following his link-up with the Springboks, but has rejected the traitor tag.

That feeling would only intensify if South Africa and Australia end up meeting, as is entirely possible, in the World Cup quarter-finals.

White has vowed not to compromise Jones by asking him to reveal any secrets he has from four years as Wallabies coach and one season with the Queensland Reds.