The Wallabies have turned to Melbourne Storm bound former Roosters assistant coach Jason Ryles to aid their World Cup campaign after the shock resignation of one of coach Eddie Jones’ key assistants.
Attack coach Brad Davis, who was only appointed by Jones in May, quit his role days before the Wallabies headed to France prompting a fiery departure press conference from the national coach on Thursday.
Jones said the coaching staff would “improve” after Davis’ departure and confirmed he had spoken to potential replacements.
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On Friday Rugby Australia confirmed Ryles, who worked with Jones when he was in charge of England, would fulfil the role for the tournament.
“I would like to thank Brad for his efforts this year, and we wish him all the best for his future.
“Jason is the most sought-after coach in the NRL. He will add immensely to our coaching staff and help prepare the players to win the Rugby World Cup.
“We are thrilled to have him join the team.”
Ryles will join the Wallabies, who left on Thursday, in France shortly.
Ryles played 271 games in the NRL before turning to coaching with the Melbourne Storm and Sydney Roosters.
But he left the Roosters mid-season in 2023 after agreeing to terms to re-join the Storm in 2024, with a view to potentially being Craig Bellamy’s successors as head coach.
Bellamy will coach on in 2024, but has no commitment to the club beyond then.
Jones said Davis’ decision to quit, for personal reasons, on the eve of the World Cup was made after discussions this week.
“We had a discussion a couple of nights ago,” Jones said on Thursday.
“There’s a potential candidate ready to step up now. As I said, I think we’ll improve the coaching staff.”
