The bookies are rarely wrong and when they slashed odds on Eddie Jones becoming the next England coach, it was a good indication that a deal was close. And sure enough, the reports that a deal is on the table have now followed.
Numerous sources in England are reporting that a deal with Jones is effectively completed. The only thing left to sort out is the compensation package that the Stormers will receive for the inconvenience of having their coach depart just a few weeks into his new contract.
Before leading Japan to that win over South Africa, Jones had already signed a deal to take over the Super Rugby franchise. However, he then made it clear that if the RFU were to come knocking, he would listen to offers. The Stormers may not want to lose him but it seems England have made their choice and a bumper compensation package won't stand in their way.
It's an intriguing appointment and one which will see the Australian become England's first oversees coach. That may be somewhat of a transition for both England and included in that could be the removal of Chris Robshaw from the side. Speaking during the World Cup, Jones may have been laying down an early marker with his thoughts on the England captain.
I just don't think he's an open-side flanker. He's more a 6 and a half. He's an excellent player but the first thing you have to do for the captain is to make sure he's going to be in the team.
Whether Robshaw remains in the team remains to be seen but it seems Jones could be installed officially by the end of the month with the hope of wrestling the Six Nations title back from Ireland very much at the top of Jones' to-do list.
