Japan's head coach Eddie Jones has asked the Springbok legend for help. Victor Matfield, South Africa's most capped player, has joined the Japanese coaching staff as a consultant.
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The move reunites Jones with Matfield, who played a key role in South Africa's 2007 World Cup win under Jones' tutelage.
Lineout expertise
Known as a lineout expert, Matfield has gained a wealth of coaching experience since retiring. He has worked for the Bulls and Lions, and has even helped Portugal prepare for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
This is not Matfield's first foray into international coaching. He recently assisted Johan van Graan at Bath.
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“It's great to be involved at an international level and work with Eddie,” Matfield told Rapport. “I often say I’m a big Eddie fan.”
How will Matfield contribute?
“This position with Eddie is more formal,” Matfield explained. “In the two weeks before the test, I will be flying to Japan twice to participate in a camp there.
We will also analyze Japan's opposing teams every week and make plans for the future. ”
mattfield's desire
The Springboks have high hopes that this opportunity with Japan will open the door for future endeavors. “I have always dreamed of one day being involved full-time with the Springboks and coaching there,” he revealed.
However, Matfield remains fully committed to supporting the Springboks if needed.
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“This is a great opportunity for me to stay involved in the game and stay relevant. The game is moving on and I have to keep up with new ways of doing things.”
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The collaboration will strengthen Japan's already strong line-up for the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The coaching talents of Eddie Jones, combined with the tactical intelligence and lineout expertise of Victor Matfield, make the Brave Blossoms a force to be reckoned with.
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