Eddie Jones dream XV of players coached includes six English players

Vunipola's power and dynamic carrying were central to England’s forward game. A key player in Jones' England setup, Vunipola’s destructive ball-carrying and leadership have earned him a permanent spot in the dream team.

Jones is one of the most respected head coaches in rugby. He first took charge of Australia in 2001, leading the Wallabies to a Tri Nations title and a stirring run to the 2003 Rugby World Cup final, where they fell to England in extra time. Known for his sharp mind and demanding standards, he revitalised Australia’s play but faced mounting pressure after a run of injuries and losses in 2005, leading to his dismissal.

In 2007, Jones briefly joined South Africa’s World Cup campaign as technical advisor to Jake White. His influence on the Springbok attack was widely praised as the team went on to win the tournament, though Jones himself, ever the outsider, wore a tracksuit instead of the team blazer — a fitting image of his maverick spirit.

Appointed England head coach in 2015, Jones became their first foreign leader and enjoyed immediate success. He delivered a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2016, a historic 3–0 series win over Australia, and guided England to the 2019 World Cup final after a stunning semi-final victory over New Zealand. Though beaten by South Africa in the final, Jones left with a 73% win rate — the best in England’s history.

Returning to Australia in 2023, Jones’ second stint was far rockier. Amid internal strain and poor results, Australia suffered their first-ever World Cup pool-stage exit. It was a humbling end for one of rugby’s most fiery and fascinating coaching figures.

Using several interviews with various sources from down the years, we’ve formed Eddie Jones dream team of the players based on the players he bestowed with the most acclaim.

15. Matt Burke (Australia)
A player Jones rates highly for his all-around ability. Known for his composed leadership and superb kicking, Burke earned 81 caps for Australia and played a key role in the 1999 World Cup-winning side.

14. Bryan Habana (South Africa)
Arguably one of the best wingers to have ever played the game. Habana’s blistering pace and knack for scoring tries were unmatched, making him a regular in Jones’ praise. He’s a two-time World Cup winner and remains one of the all-time greats.

11. Lote Tuqiri (Australia)
A powerhouse wing, Tuqiri was an explosive force on the field with an unrelenting attacking presence. Jones saw his potential early and valued his strength, agility, and leadership in Australia’s 2003 and 2007 World Cup campaigns.

13. Stirling Mortlock (Australia)
A veteran of the game and a player who embodied the toughness and skill of Australian rugby. Mortlock was key to Jones' successful teams and known for his strong runs and crucial defensive plays.

12. Manu Tuilagi (England)
Jones has often praised Tuilagi for his power and fearlessness. The England centre is known for his devastating ball-carrying ability, and Jones made full use of this in England’s 2019 World Cup run, where Tuilagi's impact was undeniable.

Fly-half: Owen Farrell (England)
Owen Farrell is no stranger to high praise from Jones, and for good reason. A talismanic presence, Farrell’s tactical kicking, defensive strength, and leadership make him a standout in any team. Jones has relied on him as a key figure for England, especially in the 2019 World Cup final.

Scrum-half: George Gregan (Australia)
Gregan is widely regarded as one of the greatest scrum-halves in rugby history. A genius of the game, his sharp passing and tactical awareness were pivotal for Australia during the 2003 World Cup, and Jones never shied away from singing his praises.

Loosehead-prop: Mako Vunipola (England)
A cornerstone of the England pack, Mako Vunipola's scrummaging power and dynamic carrying ability make him a key player in Jones’ dream team. He’s a leader on the field and has been pivotal for England’s success under Jones’ tutelage.

Hooker: John Smit (South Africa)
Smit was a key figure in South Africa's 2007 World Cup win, earning Jones' admiration for his leadership and ability to influence the game in the set-piece. A versatile player with incredible tactical nous.

Tighthead-prop: Kyle Sinckler (England)
Sinckler's rise under Jones was impressive, with his incredible strength in the scrum and robust work rate around the park. His fiery nature and occasional on-field antics have made him a unique presence in Jones' England squad.

Lock: Maro Itoje (England)
Itoje is a lock for any dream team, thanks to his exceptional lineout skills, defensive power, and leadership. Jones has nurtured Itoje into one of the world’s top locks and a cornerstone of England’s forward pack.

Lock: Victor Matfield (South Africa)
Matfield’s leadership and lineout expertise made him an essential player for South Africa, and Jones holds him in high regard. His ability to disrupt opposition ball and his towering presence in the set piece were critical to South Africa’s success.

Blindside-flanker: Schalk Burger (South Africa)
Burger's never-say-die attitude and relentless work rate earned him a spot in Jones' dream team. The South African flanker was one of the most dynamic and aggressive players in the world, capable of turning a game on its head.

Openside-flanker: George Smith (Australia)
Smith was a phenomenon at openside. His tireless work at the breakdown and his ability to read the game made him one of the most effective players in world rugby. Jones always valued his sharp rugby brain and quick thinking.

Number 8: Billy Vunipola (England)