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Japan coach Eddie Jones to take over top job at Stormers

Japan's Coach Eddie Jones congratulates his team following victory over South Africa during the Rugby World Cup match at the Brighton Community Stadium
Image: Japan's coach Eddie Jones (centre) congratulates his team following victory over South Africa

Eddie Jones, who masterminded Japan's epic victory over the Springboks, is heading to South Africa after the World Cup.

The Japan coach has been hired as the new boss of the Super 15 side the Stormers.  

Japan's stunning 34-32 victory over South Africa in Brighton on Saturday was probably the biggest upset in rugby history.

The Cape Town-based Super Rugby team said that Jones would take over as head coach for the 2016 season.

He takes over from Allister Coetzee, who is heading to Japan in a new coaching role.

Jones, 55, previously coached Australia to the 2003 World Cup final and was an assistant coach for South Africa when they won the World Cup in 2007.

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Stormers Director of Rugby Gert Smal said: "Eddie was always on my mind in terms of potential external candidates and it's a massive coup that we have signed a coach of his ability - his coaching credentials and achievements speak for themselves. 

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"We will get Eddie here as soon as we can after the Rugby World Cup so he can get started with his 2016 preparations.

"He is obviously focusing on Japan's World Cup campaign at present, where he has already made a significant impact."

Jones believes the time is right for a fresh challenge.

"I am well aware of the responsibilities that come with this job, one of the biggest franchise jobs in world rugby, but I am also excited about the talent available in the Stormers squad and the potential of this playing squad," he said.

"This is a challenge I am looking forward to."

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