Former England rugby international Danny Cipriani has opened up about his challenging experiences under coach Eddie Jones, criticizing his confrontational coaching style and questioning his leadership approach. Cipriani, who won only two caps under Jones and was notably left out of England’s 2019 World Cup squad, joins a growing list of former players who have voiced discontent with the Australian’s methods.
Cipriani’s reflections on his brief but tumultuous international career shed light on the reasons behind his strained relationship with Jones, with the fly-half citing the coach’s overly combative nature and lack of emotional intelligence. His comments are part of a broader trend of former players speaking out about their experiences under Jones, who led England to a Six Nations Grand Slam, two Six Nations titles, and a World Cup final, but whose tenure was also marked by controversy.
Cipriani’s Frustration with Jones’ Approach
Cipriani, now based in Los Angeles, took part in a special charity event at Headingley this weekend, raising funds for Motor Neurone Disease research and support. Reflecting on his time under Jones, Cipriani shared his thoughts in a candid interview, revealing the deep disconnect between him and the coach. Despite Cipriani’s impressive form with club side Wasps, his international appearances were limited under Jones, leading him to question the coach’s judgment.
“My experiences with Eddie were difficult,” Cipriani said. “He probably felt that I would stand up to him too much and didn’t think he could control me, so he just didn’t bring me into the environment. He’s not someone I would want to lead my country.”
Cipriani’s comments echo sentiments shared by other former players who have criticized Jones’ harsh approach to team management. Scrum-half Danny Care, in his autobiography, described the environment under Jones as toxic, likening it to a “dictatorship” where players were constantly under pressure.
A Divisive Coaching Legacy
Jones’ leadership of England is a tale of mixed results. Under his guidance, England enjoyed considerable success, including two Six Nations Championships, a Grand Slam, and a memorable run to the 2019 World Cup final. However, his tenure was also characterized by his confrontational style, which often alienated players.
While Cipriani recognizes Jones’ success in achieving results, he insists that the key to a truly great coach lies not in victories alone but in their ability to inspire and uplift players. “You can win games in rugby with great players, but I don’t judge a coach purely on that,” Cipriani said. “The real question is, how do you inspire players to play beyond themselves and uplift a nation?”
For Cipriani, Jones failed in this regard. He recalls how, despite performing exceptionally for his club, he was overlooked for international duty. “I was turning water into wine one season, and he didn’t even pick me,” Cipriani said. “It was crazy.”
Cipriani’s disillusionment with Jones’ leadership approach is evident in his reflections, as he emphasized that a coach should be someone who can connect with players, motivate them, and help them unlock their full potential—not just impose authority.
A Coach’s Tough Exterior
While Cipriani’s criticism is harsh, he also expressed a degree of empathy toward Jones. He acknowledged that Jones’ tough, combative demeanor was likely shaped by his own personal experiences. “I think Eddie has had a tough time in his life, and he leads with that chip on his shoulder. He’s always in a fight,” Cipriani said. “I don’t think he’s happy with the way he behaves, but it’s all he knows how to do. I have compassion for him.”
This mixture of criticism and empathy reflects a nuanced view of Jones, whose abrasive leadership style has sparked both admiration and resentment among players. Despite the challenges, Cipriani doesn’t wish to dwell solely on the negative aspects of his time under Jones, instead offering a more balanced perspective.
Reflections on the ‘745 Game’
Amidst the controversy surrounding his England career, Cipriani is preparing for a more personal challenge: playing in the ‘745 Game’ at Headingley on Sunday. The match, organized in honor of former rugby league star Rob Burrow and rugby union player Ed Slater, will raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research, with both players having been diagnosed with the condition.
In addition to Cipriani, the event will feature former rugby stars from both codes, including fellow ex-England internationals Billy Twelvetrees and Tom Youngs, as well as rugby league legends like Keith Senior, Adrian Morley, and Danny McGuire. The hybrid game, played under a set of unique cross-code rules, is designed to bring the rugby community together while raising awareness and funds for a noble cause.
Cipriani expressed his excitement about the opportunity to play in the charity match, especially after being away from the field for two years. The event not only provides him with a chance to showcase his skills once again but also to honor the memory of Burrow and support Slater in their battles with MND.
The Strain of International Rugby
For Cipriani, his time with England under Jones represents both the highs and lows of international rugby. Despite his talent, his opportunities were limited, and his frustrations with the coach’s methods are clear. At the heart of Cipriani’s comments is a belief that coaching is not just about tactics and game plans, but about how a coach connects with their players and cultivates an environment where individuals can thrive.
His experiences suggest that a lack of personal connection and understanding can have a significant impact on a player’s confidence and performance, something that many players under Jones have alluded to over the years. Jones’ focus on discipline and toughness, while successful in some areas, seems to have left many players feeling disconnected and unsupported, ultimately diminishing their potential.
As Cipriani’s reflections on his career continue to resonate, it serves as a reminder of the complex nature of leadership in sport. While success on the field is often the ultimate measure, the relationship between coach and player plays a crucial role in building a sustainable and positive environment for long-term achievement.
