John Mitchell to join Japan as defence coach

Japan have announced the appointment of John Mitchell as the new defence coach.

The 57-year-old was recently involved with England as defence coach and was part of the backroom staff that went on to reach the World Cup final in 2019 in Japan.

Prior to his association with the red rose team, Mitchell has also worked with Ireland (forwards coach), Sale Sharks, Wasps, Chiefs, Waikato, Western Force, Lions, United States, Bulls apart from coaching New Zealand between 2001 and 2003.

He will now link up with the Brave Blossoms ahead of their summer series.

“This is a great opportunity to add value to Japan winning test matches through growing their defence and understanding how it plays a critical part in the way we want to attack.

I am grateful to be working with Jamie Joseph, Tony Brown, Scott Hansen, Shin Hasegawa and the outstanding coaching group preparing for the RWC 2023 in France.

I would also like to thank Wasps for their support and co-operation in allowing me this opportunity.”