RFU appoints Richard Hill as England team manager

Richard Hill has been appointed England team manager
Richard Hill has been appointed England team manager
©PA

Rugby Football Union on Wednesday confirmed 2003 World Cup winning former flanker Richard Hill as the team manager of the England team.

The 43-year-old, who played a vital role for England in the 2003 World Cup final against Australia will join the team on 2nd October and will be handling off-field matters for Eddie Jones' men.

Jones expressed his delight on having Hill on board.

"Richard is an icon of English rugby and I'm very pleased he has agreed to join the management team," Jones said.

Hill started his career with England in 1997 and in 11 years, he went on to play 71 Tests and has featured in 275 games for the Aviva Premiership club Saracens between 1993 and 2008.

Described as 'silent assassin', Hill was also hired by RFU in 2008 to mentor upcoming flankers like as Jack Clifford and Sam Underhill.

"Richard's vast international experience and in-depth knowledge of the RFU player pathway means he's a great fit for this role in the England set-up," Jones said.

"It's important we use the knowledge of former international players and keep an historical link with the past. I'm in no doubt he'll excel in his role.

"I look forward to working with him again as we continue our preparation for the Old Mutual Wealth Series later this year."

Meanwhile, Hill is looking to contribute to England's success as they look forward to the 2019 World Cup.

"It's a great honour to take up this position with the national team," Hill said.

"These are exciting times for English rugby and I look forward to supporting the team and management in our journey to the World Cup in 2019."