Stuart Lancaster will not succeed Eddie Jones as new Japan coach

Stuart Lancaster will not be replacing Eddie Jones as the Japanese national team's head coach, Press Association Sport understands.

A report stated that the former England boss was considering an offer to take charge of the Brave Blossoms as part of a four-year deal that would have encompassed the 2019 World Cup in Japan.

However, it is understood that while a preliminary enquiry over Lancaster's availability was made early last month, the 46-year-old will not be taking any position at the Japanese Rugby Football Union.

The scope of the role offered to Lancaster was initially thought to include overseeing new Tokyo-based Super 15 franchise the Sunwolves, however that role has since been given to former New Zealand hooker Mark Hammett.

Another ex-All Black, Jamie Joseph, is the current favourite to take over the Brave Blossoms.

Lancaster resigned as England head coach on November 11 following the completion of the Rugby Football Union's review into the hosts' disastrous 2015 World Cup with Eddie Jones succeeding the Cumbrian.

Lancaster's record during his 46-matches at the helm of England saw him oversee 28 victories, 17 losses and one draw - a win ratio of 60.9 per cent.