Eddie Jones Has Already Begun His Mind Games Ahead Of The Six Nations

Eddie Jones has started his mind games early this year.

The England head coach claims that he wants his side to play a leading role in transforming the RBS 6 Nations into the best competition in the world by showing ambition throughout their title defence.

Jones earlier this week said his side must be daring if they are to claim back-to-back Grand Slam titles. He believes that Six Nations sides are overly cautious, especially in the opening rounds and has demanded that his team issue a statement of intent against France in their opening game.

The Australian says the rugby was much better in the last two rounds.

“The Six Nations is a unique competition because of the intensity of the rivalry, so if we can get the rugby at a great level then it will be the greatest tournament in the world,” Jones said.

“I thought that in the first few rounds of the Six Nations in 2016, teams were frightened to lose and they played like that.

“Teams played well within themselves and didn’t want to take any risks. I thought that in the last two rounds, the quality of rugby was so much better, but we want to change that.

“The last side that played well in the first round of the competition was England in 2006. I think England beat Wales 47-13. Before that you go back to the great side of 2001/2002/2003.

“In all the other games since, England have stumbled and got a close victory. We want to go out there and set a benchmark in the tournament from that first game.”

Will the other coaches take the bait and play a more exciting, daring brand of rugby this year? The introduction of the new bonus-point system is sure to help.