Eddie Jones' consultancy role with Suntory Sungoliath given green light by RFU

The Rugby Football Union has confirmed that England head coach Eddie Jones' consultancy role with Japanese side Suntory Sungoliath will continue without any hindrance.

As the draws for the 2023 World was unveiled on Monday, England were grouped in the same Pool as Japan but the England board reckons there will not be any conflict of interest when the 60-year-old assists Suntory Sungoliath.

Jones had already worked with the Top League side in 1997 and also had a second stint with them between 2009 and 2012 - the same year he took in charge of Japan guiding them to a famous historic win over South Africa in the 2015 World Cup following which he became the head coach of England replacing Stuart Lancaster.

"Eddie has had a consultancy agreement with Suntory for over 20 years," an RFU spokesperson said.

"We have been aware and comfortable with that since he joined the RFU.

"He provides consultancy in his holidays and this role is in no way a conflict with his England team priorities."

England and Japan will be joined by Argentina and two other qualifying teams in the 2023 World Cup to be played in France between 8th September and 21st October.