Not for the first time, England’s coach has targeted an opposition No 10 before a big Six Nations match, adding further spice to what is set to be a fiery occasion
When Wales head for Twickenham the odds on a passive, entirely silent pre-match buildup usually range between slim and none. This year has proved no exception and calculated references by Eddie Jones to the “cocky” Welsh and the torrid welcome awaiting the visiting fly-half Rhys Patchell have added further kerosene to the already combustible Six Nations contest on Saturday.
If Jones’s pointed analysis is any indicator, a red-hot encounter is all but guaranteed with Patchell a particular target for attention. The Scarlets’ fly-half has been wonderfully influential for both region and country over the past month but England clearly feel he can be rattled. “Every time Rhys Patchell gets the ball he’s going to see Jonathan Joseph’s head in his way,” said Jones, having confirmed a starting XV with Joseph at outside centre in place of Ben Te’o.
Related: Jonathan Joseph replaces Te'o in England team to face Wales
Backs
Continue reading...