The All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith has ruled himself out as a candidate for the vacant England coaching position.
The All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Following a review into England's early World Cup elimination, the Rugby Football Union yesterday announced that Stuart Lancaster had stepped down by mutual consent.
The RFU said it would now begin a "global search" for a coach and that money wasn't an issue.
Smith told the BBC he's taking a break. "I'm being clear with everyone that I'm not coaching full-time in 2016.
"I've had 29 years in the game as a coach and it's time for a break. I'll see what 2017 and beyond brings."
The Australian Eddie Jones says he's committed to his new job as head coach of the South African side the Stormers and has denied rumours that he has been in negotiations with the RFU.
Jones is also one of the men mentioned as a replacement following his run with Japan at the World Cup.
However when asked about the England job, Jones said, "never believe what you read in the papers mate, I am wholly committed to the Stormers."
The South African Jake White has revealed that he's interested in the England coaching job but he is hedging his bets in the meantime.
White hasn't coached at international level since guiding the Springboks to a second World Cup title in 2007.
He coached the Brumbies and the Sharks in Super Rugby and is now with French side Montpellier.
"Let's wait and see…I've been in this position before and I've said openly I don't want to be in the middle of shortlists," the 52-year-old told Sky Sports.
"If they genuinely think I'm the right guy and it's the way forward for English rugby, then I would put my hand up.
The Chiefs coach Dave Rennie has also been mentioned.. he's contracted to the Super Rugby side for the next two years.
There is a growing voice in England that the RFU should pick an Englishman.