England reveal Felix Jones' replacement
NEWS: England have appointed Joe El-Abd as their defence coach ahead of the November internationals.
The announcement comes a month after it emerged that former Springbok assistant Felix Jones wanted to leave the England coaching set-up
“I’m delighted to bring in someone with Joe’s expertise to our coaching programme,” said Borthwick.
“His knowledge, passion for the game and proven experience in developing high-performing teams, will be key to the squad’s ongoing development.
“Joe embodies the qualities we value in the England team and am I sure he will add to our environment and quickly deliver continued improvements to our game.”
Welcome to England Rugby, Joe El-Abd! 🌹
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) September 26, 2024
After a playing career which saw him represent Bath, Bristol, and Toulon, El-Abd moved to Pro D2 outfit Oyonnax in 2012 initially as a player coach before transitioning into full-time coaching two years later, with responsibility for the forwards and defence.
During his time at Oyonnax, the side were crowned Pro D2 champions in the 2012/13 season, qualifying for the Champions Cup for the first time in the club’s history in 2014/15.
A four-year spell as forwards and defence coach at Castres Olympique followed, where he helped the club secure a Top 14 title in 2018. He then returned to Oyonnax as Director of Rugby for the 2019/20 season – where he was again responsible for defence – leading them back into the Top 14 as Pro D2 champions in 2023.
“I feel incredibly honoured to join the England coaching team and I can’t wait to get started,” said El-Abd.
“I am excited by the direction in which this England team is headed and where they want to go under Steve’s leadership. His enthusiasm is infectious and his vision for this team is clear.
“Defence is a huge part of the game and it’s something I’m extremely passionate about. I am excited by the opportunity to keep developing a defence that will help drive England’s success.
“I’d like to thank everyone at Oyonnax, especially Dougal Bendjaballah for understanding my deep desire to coach the England national team.”
The 44-year-old joins Steve Borthwick’s coaching set-up for the forthcoming Nations Series and 2025 Six Nations Championship while continuing his role as Director of Rugby at Oyonnax.
He will combine his responsibilities with the Pro D2 club until the conclusion of the 24/25 season, after which he will transition to working exclusively for England.
England welcome New Zealand to Twickenham Stadium on Saturday, November 2 for their first match of the 2024 Nations Series, before taking on Australia, South Africa and Japan.
