Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 14, 2024 3:27 pm GMT
In a significant shift for the England rugby team, Joe El-Abd has been appointed as the new defence coach, bringing a wealth of experience from his playing and coaching career. El-Abd, who has a long-standing relationship with head coach Steve Borthwick, is expected to enhance England’s defensive strategies as they prepare for their autumn international campaign against formidable opponents.
New Era Under Joe El-Abd
The England Rugby Football Union announced that El-Abd, 44, will officially start his role as defence coach in time for England’s autumn matches, which kick off against New Zealand on November 2. Until the end of the current season, he will juggle his duties with his role as head coach of Oyonnax, a French club competing in the second-tier Pro D2 league. This transitional period allows him to bring insights from Oyonnax while integrating into the England set-up.
In an enthusiastic statement, El-Abd expressed his excitement about joining the England coaching staff under Borthwick’s leadership. “I feel incredibly honoured to join the England coaching team, and I can’t wait to get started,” he said. “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.”
Background and Experience
El-Abd’s rugby journey began as a player, where he showcased his skills at notable clubs including Bath, Bristol, and Toulon. His coaching career has also been impressive:
- 2012-2020: El-Abd transitioned from player to player-coach at Oyonnax. Within two years, he took full command of the forwards and defence.
- 2013: Under his guidance, Oyonnax claimed the Pro D2 title, marking a historic achievement for the club by qualifying for the Champions Cup for the first time in 2015.
- 2016-2020: He served as forwards and defence coach at Castres, which saw the club clinch a Top 14 title in 2018.
- 2019-Present: Returning to Oyonnax as the director of rugby, El-Abd successfully led the team back to the Top 14 in 2023 before their recent relegation.
Steve Borthwick, who once shared a flat with El-Abd during their time at Bath University, highlighted the new coach’s credentials. “Joe’s knowledge, passion for the game, and proven experience in developing high-performing teams will be key to the squad’s ongoing development,” Borthwick remarked.
Challenges Ahead for England Rugby
El-Abd’s appointment comes at a challenging time for the England team. Felix Jones, the previous defence coach, resigned unexpectedly just months after joining the team from a successful run with South Africa. His departure, described by Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney as “deeply disappointing,” leaves a gap in the coaching structure that El-Abd is now called to fill.
Jones will continue to support England remotely until his notice period concludes, offering tactical insights to aid El-Abd’s transition. This collaborative approach could create a more seamless integration within the coaching staff.
The Road to Autumn Fixtures
As England nears their autumn fixtures, El-Abd will be tasked with enhancing the team’s defensive capabilities against top-tier teams, starting with New Zealand. This match—and the subsequent games against other international sides—will serve as a vital testing ground for his strategies.
As he prepares for these challenges, El-Abd remains committed to fostering a strong defensive framework. “I am excited by the direction this England team is headed. I believe that a robust defence can lay the foundation for our success,” he stated.
Looking Forward
The upcoming season will undoubtedly prove pivotal for both El-Abd and the England team. With the new defence coach in place, all eyes will be on the squad to see how they respond to the changes.
- Focus Areas:
– Strengthen Defensive Tactics: Implementing efficient strategies to counter top international teams.
– Team Cohesion: Fostering unity among players and coaches to establish a robust team culture.
– Long-Term Vision: Aligning with Borthwick’s vision for the future while striving for immediate improvements.
With the autumn matches on the horizon, El-Abd’s influence and coaching acumen will be tested as England looks to reinvigorate its performance on the world stage. The combination of El-Abd’s passion for defence and Borthwick’s infectious enthusiasm may just be the catalyst needed to elevate England’s play, promising a season filled with potential and purpose.
El-Abd is starting an exciting new journey, and everyone—fans, players, and coaches—are feeling hopeful. With a mix of experience and new ideas, the England rugby team looks ready to face the challenges and chances that come their way.
