Eddie Jones says he will make radical personnel changes, claiming his England squad for the 2023 World Cup could comprise 60% new members.
Jones masterminded England’s incredible semi-final victory over New Zealand and then fielded the youngest-ever side in the World Cup final, where they lost 32-12 to Rassie Erasmus’ Springboks.
However, Jones is already thinking about overhauling his lineup on an annual basis which would mean more than half the group who featured at RWC 2019 will be replaced by 2023.
World Cup memory: Am’s remarkable play
The players to be cut could include seniors such as current captain Owen Farrell, Mako Vunipola, Jamie George, Jonny May, Courtney Lawes and Ben Youngs, who will all be well into their 30s by the time of the next World Cup in France.
‘I don’t think this group can have another World Cup in them,’ Jones told BBC Sport.
‘While there will be core members of the team who will be able to continue to the next World Cup, there will be a new influx of members coming in.
‘If you look at the squad this year we have changed it by 20%. There will be another 20% change in the second year, and another 20% in the third year.
‘By the time we get to the World Cup it could be 40% of the squad from the 2019 World Cup and 60% new members.’
Jones’ ruthless edge is best illustrated by his non-selection of big-name players such as Dylan Hartley, Chris Robshaw and Danny Care for last year’s World Cup. But he insists that is the way to keep evolving his side.
‘That’s how you get the growth in the team. You have to continually look for better players and players who can add value to the team.’
Best of YouTube: Rassie reflects on first season
Photo: Getty Images
