Joe El-Abd Set to Become England’s New Defence Coach

Joe El-Abd is finalizing a deal to become England’s new defence coach replacing Felix Jones, who resigned unexpectedly last month. El-Abd, currently the head coach of French side Oyonnax plans to join the team in time for the November internationals with England set to face New Zealand at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium on 2 November.

At 44, the former flanker has built an impressive coaching career in France leading both Oyonnax and Castres before returning to Oyonnax as head coach. El-Abd played over 100 games for Bristol in the 2000s and had stints with Caerphilly, Toulon and Oyonnax. He shares a close relationship with England head coach Steve Borthwick having been his flatmate during their time at Bath University.

Several other candidates including former England assistant coach Paul Gustard and Stormers coach Norman Laker competed for the role but Joe El-Abd emerged as the preferred choice. England plans to have El-Abd in place for their training camp by the end of October. However, Felix Jones still remains part of the coaching staff for now. Jones, who helped South Africa win back-to-back World Cups is serving a 12-month notice period.

Although no other team has bought out his contract yet, he expects high demand for his services. In other developments, Kevin Sinfield is nearing an agreement on a new contract with the Rugby Football Union. This deal will allow Sinfield to remain part of England’s coaching team, though in a reduced-hours role enabling him to balance his contributions to the national team with other commitments.