TALKING POINTS
Judgement day
Eddie Jones stated his only real goal from the moment he replaced Stuart Lancaster at the end of 2015 was to win the World Cup in Japan. Victory today would place England in the pantheon alongside the heroes of 2003.
What next for Eddie?
Win or lose, Jones’ future serves as a fascinating subplot to events in Yokohama. The 59-year-old has flatly refused to engage on what lies ahead. In reaching the final he has already exceeded the target needed to trigger the two-year extension agreed with Twickenham lasting until 2021, but there will now undoubtedly be moves to tie him down until the next World Cup in France. Rudderless Australia are a genuine alternative but Glasgow Dave Rennie appears to be favourite for that gig.
Fifty for Kolisi
Jones’ future may be laced with uncertainty but Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has confirmed he will step down after the final. Just as significant, however, is the 50th cap that will be won by Siya Kolisi - the nation’s first black Test captain. Rugby is viewed as a unifying force in South Africa and with the popular Kolisi at the helm, the nation has an inspirational figure to rally behind. Yet the appointment had far more humble origins. Erasmus: “My plan never was this big thing to get the country behind us. Siya was actually the best Super Rugby-performing team captain and that’s the reason why he became captain of the Springboks. I was naive not to think it would be a massive thing. It’s his 50th Test and this is a fitting and wonderful occasion for him as the first black captain. Now it’s also sunk into me. I understand how big it is. I’m not so naive any more.”
Let’s get physical
South Africa’s conservative tactics have been described as ‘anti-rugby’ and they have won few hearts and minds in Japan. They know their strengths - a monstrous pack, shrewd half-backs with wicked boots and a powerful inside centre. All evidence points to another forward-led assault, not least because of their six-two split between forwards and backs on the bench, but it should be noted that they played some quality rugby while winning the Rugby Championship.