Eddie Jones and England set to muddle on in marriage of convenience

Four weeks after the 2021 Six Nations, the Rugby Football Union sent out an email.

They had looked into the reasons for England's dreary campaign. They had solutions. external-link

More psychological help for the players. Referees to give advice on improving discipline. An integrated analytics model.

It was hardly root-and-branch stuff. More some gentle topiary. After another underwhelming Six Nations was rounded off by defeat by France on Saturday though, some are calling for the most dramatic cut of all: the departure of Eddie Jones.

Captain Courtney Lawes came out to defend his coach on the eve of the match, describing speculation over Jones' job as «ridiculous».external-link

But it is certainly not the results on the pitch that make a coaching change seem far-fetched.

England finished third in this year's Six Nations, but their record — two wins, three losses — is the same as 12 months ago.

They scored eight tries, five of which came against bottom side Italy, four fewer than they managed in 2021.

They also broke fewer tackles than any other side, despite a promise to loosen the reins and show off a more attacking style.

The gripes among England fans are growing. Parts of the media have turned, calling openly for Jones' immediate departure. external-link

The theory is plausible: a new coach to jump-start the team before next year's Rugby World Cup.

It is not too late. This is the point in the last cycle when South Africa swapped the floundering Allister Coetzee for Rassie Erasmus. Eighteen months later, Siya Kolisi was hoisting the trophy in Yokohama.

Australia made the final in 2015 after ditching Ewen McKenzie and bringing in Michael Cheika the previous year.

France won through to the 2011 showpiece effectively without a