Former Wallabies coach Eddie Jones seems just board approval away from regaining the reins of Japan, despite repeated denials he was chasing the job.
Japanese media reports Jones has beaten out South African Frans Ludeke for the role, pending confirmation by the Japan Rugby Football Union board this week.
He previously held the position from 2012-15, guiding the 'Brave Blossoms' to an upset World Cup victory over South Africa to springboard himself into the England job.
Jones, 63, served seven years with the English, but was dumped last December, after winning just five of 12 tests during 2022. A month later, he replaced Kiwi Dave Rennie in charge of Australia, signing a five-year contract to prepare the Wallabies for a home World Cup in 2027.
His tenure began with a five-game losing streak and yielded just two wins from nine outings, as the two-time World Cup champions exited poolplay for the first time.
Even then, news broke of his renewed interest in the Japan head coach role, due to be vacated by former All Black Jamie Joseph after the tournament, but Jones insisted his loyalty was to Australia.
He resigned as Wallabies coach in October, claiming: "I gave it a run.
"Hopefully, I will be the catalyst for change. Sometimes, you have to eat shit for others to eat caviar further down the track."
Sponichi sports website reports Jones has beaten out Ludeke, who coaches Kubota Spears in Japan Top League.
"It was revealed on the 8th that Eddie Jones (63), who served in the same position from 2012 to 2015, has been confirmed to return as the next head coach (HC) of the Japan national rugby team," said Sponichi.
"If approved by the Board of Directors on the 13th, he will be officially appointed for the first time in eight years.
"Regarding the selection of the next head coach, Japan Association President Masato Tsuchida, who has a close relationship with Jones, led the return and made a secret offer to Jones, who had been Australia's coach this spring."
Jones seems likely to take longtime confidant and Wallabies general manager Chris Webb with him.
