Eddie Jones says he is “looking forward” to being back in the coaches’ box at Twickenham for a clash between two of rugby’s titans in 2023.
Jones, who was sacked as England head coach last week, will coach the Barbarians against a Steve Hansen-led World XV in a battle for the Killik Cup on Sunday, 28 May.
The 62-year-old will take charge of the BaaBaas for the second time, having coached the invitational side to a narrow 33-31 defeat to Fiji in November 2019.
“It’s an incredible honour to be asked to coach the Barbarians for a second time,” said Jones.
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“I am very much looking forward to returning to Twickenham Stadium – a venue I have so many fond memories of – as head coach of the Barbarians, and I’m more motivated than ever to put on a show.
“Going up against Steve rekindles a great rivalry which first started in our days competing in Super Rugby and progressed into the international arena. It’ll be a great challenge and one I’m sure we’re both relishing.”
The fixture against the World XV marks the first return to the home of English rugby for the BaaBaas since a stunning 52-21 victory over Jones’ England at Twickenham in June.
It will also be the first convening of a World XV for five years, and Hansen – a Rugby World Cup winner during his seven-year stint at the helm of the All Blacks – is relishing the prospect.
He said: “2023 is set to be an incredible year for rugby and I’m really excited to be returning to Twickenham.
“I’ve coached both for and against the Barbarians during my career, and while you always have to expect the unexpected where they are concerned … we’ll have a hugely entertaining match played in a festival atmosphere.”
