Jones takes the rap for Grand Slam slip

EDDIE Jones shouldered full responsibility for England’s latest Grand Slam implosion in Dublin - then admitted he cannot wait to take on New Zealand.

Ireland ended England’s world record-equalling winning run at 18 matches with a fine 13-9 win at the Aviva Stadium, to deny Jones’ side a second-successive grand slam.

England might have left Dublin as RBS 6 Nations champions, but without the outright record run of 19 consecutive wins, with Iain Henderson’s try decisive for Ireland.

Jones branded New Zealand “there for the taking” for the British and Irish Lions this summer, then confirmed his desire for the Rugby Football Union (RFU) to set up a match with the All Blacks in November.

“I expect at least 15 of our guys to go on the Lions tour, I’d be disappointed if we don’t have that many guys in,” said Jones.

“And I think they’ll have a massive shout (of winning a first series in New Zealand since 1971).

“New Zealand, as Ireland shown, are there for the taking.

“I can’t wait for us to play them either. We’re very keen to play them, I’ve had a discussion with Ian (Ritchie, RFU chief executive) and we’re raring to go.”

England are not currently slated to face back-to-back world champions New Zealand until 2018, but the RFU are battling to secure a prestige November 2017 fixture with the All Blacks at Twickenham.

Jones’ clear desire for England to face New Zealand merely underscores his aim to turn his side into the world’s best.

“There’s a lot of discussions to go,” said Jones.

“A lot of discussions with New Zealand and within the rugby community, there’s still a lot to go. have Ireland’s Cian Healy (left) and Johnny Sexton celebrate after beating England and preventing their Grand Slam