In a strategic move to bolster Japan's rugby prowess, Eddie Jones has enlisted Gary Gold, a seasoned coach with a global coaching footprint, to his backroom staff for the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup. Gold, who recently parted ways with the Bulls, joins a robust coaching lineup that features international veterans from the rugby world.
Gold's appointment marks his return to the international rugby scene after a five-year tenure with the USA Eagles. His coaching journey spans various clubs and countries, including stints at Newcastle, Bath, and Kobe Kobelco Steelers, among others. The coaching ensemble for Japan also includes former All Black prop Owen Franks, ex-Bath coach Neal Hatley, and former Highlanders' fly-half Dan Bowden. Completing the team are former Japanese players Shoji Ito and Ippei Asada.
While Victor Matfield, the legendary Springboks lock, was not listed as a coach for the upcoming tournament, his advisory role within the Japanese setup continues. According to reports, Matfield will be involved in Japan's camp and will continue to provide crucial feedback and analysis throughout the year.
"I will fly to Japan twice to be involved in the Japanese camp there for two weeks before their Tests,"
Matfield explained last year, detailing his commitment to Japan's rugby strategy. He also emphasized the flexibility of his role, which allows him to balance his business interests and family life while staying engaged with the sport at an international level.
"This position with Japan suits me perfectly because of business interests and home life, I will of course be available at any time to get involved with the Boks,"
he added, highlighting the dual benefit of his advisory position. As Japan prepares to face off against teams like Canada and the USA in Pool B, with Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa in Pool A, the blend of international experience and strategic insights from figures like Gold and Matfield could prove pivotal for Eddie Jones' squad.
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In a strategic move to bolster Japan's rugby prowess, Eddie Jones has enlisted Gary Gold, a seasoned coach with a global coaching footprint, to his backroom staff for the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup. Gold, who recently parted ways with the Bulls, joins a robust coaching lineup that features international veterans from the rugby world.
Gold's appointment marks his return to the international rugby scene after a five-year tenure with the USA Eagles. His coaching journey spans various clubs and countries, including stints at Newcastle, Bath, and Kobe Kobelco Steelers, among others. The coaching ensemble for Japan also includes former All Black prop Owen Franks, ex-Bath coach Neal Hatley, and former Highlanders' fly-half Dan Bowden. Completing the team are former Japanese players Shoji Ito and Ippei Asada.
While Victor Matfield, the legendary Springboks lock, was not listed as a coach for the upcoming tournament, his advisory role within the Japanese setup continues. According to reports, Matfield will be involved in Japan's camp and will continue to provide crucial feedback and analysis throughout the year.
"I will fly to Japan twice to be involved in the Japanese camp there for two weeks before their Tests,"
Matfield explained last year, detailing his commitment to Japan's rugby strategy. He also emphasized the flexibility of his role, which allows him to balance his business interests and family life while staying engaged with the sport at an international level.
"This position with Japan suits me perfectly because of business interests and home life, I will of course be available at any time to get involved with the Boks,"
he added, highlighting the dual benefit of his advisory position. As Japan prepares to face off against teams like Canada and the USA in Pool B, with Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa in Pool A, the blend of international experience and strategic insights from figures like Gold and Matfield could prove pivotal for Eddie Jones' squad.