Eddie Jones’ appearance on ITV as part of their Six Nations coverage for England’s opening match away to Ireland hasn’t gone down well on social media after an awkward exchange with host Mark Pougatch.
Jones had a new book out in 2021, which was released while he was still England head coach, and he accused Maro Itoje of not being captain material.
He wrote: “There were lots of calls for him to be named as captain of the British and Irish Lions in South Africa in 2021.
“Alun Wyn Jones rightly got the job instead. That seemed sensible to me. I might be wrong, but I am not sure Maro is a future England captain. He is going to be one of the great players, but Maro is very inward looking.
Eddie Jones has proven to be a controversial figure in English rugby
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“We’ve sent Maro to acting classes, which is having a beneficial effect. He speaks more influentially now, and I am hopeful he can develop more communication and leadership skills.”
Jones was sacked by the RFU in December 2022 following a poor run of results and some of England’s ex-players have called out their former boss for his coaching style.
The controversial figure appeared as a pundit for ITV’s coverage of England’s Six Nations opener away to Ireland on Saturday – Itoje’s first game as England captain under Steve Borthwick.
And host Pougatch held no punches in reminding Jones what he had written about Itoje three years ago in an awkward exchange live on air.
Pougatch opened the segment with a brief highlight showing Itoje lifting the Under-20 World Cup as England captain 11 years ago.
He then turned to Jones and said: “Eddie you always said he was a great player but in your book maybe not a natural captain, what would he have to do to change your mind?”
Jones appeared surprised at the question before brushing it off, replying: “Never believe what’s written.”
The pundits broke into laughter before Pougatch added: “Even by you Eddie?”
Jones added: “I’m sure he’s going to lead by example.
“The big thing for him is to set the tone for the team.
“He’s got a relatively young pack so if he sets the tone, that will put England in a good position.”
Maro Itoje is England’s new captain
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He added: “He needs to concentrate on his team, not worry about the referee. Really concentrate on his team and concentrate on his performance.”
But Jones’ appearance as part of ITV’s punditry team didn’t go down well with some viewers who weren’t happy at the former England head coach being on their screens.
One viewer fumed: “ITV, why have you got this weasel on your coverage of Ire v England today. Arrogance personified.”
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🗣️ “Never believe what’s written!”
Eddie Jones on Maro Itoje’s first game leading England, after labelling him ‘not a natural captain’ in his book 👀#GuinnessM6N | #IREvENG pic.twitter.com/3DmcUIrvqh
— ITV Rugby (@ITVRugby) February 1, 2025
Another moaned: “That’s outrageous….ITV have Eddie Jones as part of their expert panel for the #IREvENG #SixNationsRugby game today. Hilarious!!”
A third message read: “Anyone else having to mute the tv when Eddie Jones opens his mouth?”
One other posted: “Is Eddie Jones the best ITV can do?”
Another said: “ITV having Eddie Jones on the panel in Dublin today. Brave move that one all things considered. “