Joe El-Abd joins England males’s group as defence coach from Autumn Nations Collection

England Rugby have appointed Joe El-Abd because the defence coach who joins Steve Borthwick’s teaching set-up for the forthcoming Autumn Nations Collection.  

After a taking part in profession which noticed him symbolize Tub Rugby, Bristol, and Toulon, El-Abd moved to Professional D2 outfit Oyonnax in 2012 initially as a player-coach earlier than transitioning into full-time teaching two years later, with accountability for the forwards and defence.

Throughout his time at Oyonnax the facet have been topped Professional D2 champions within the 2012/13 season, qualifying for the Champions Cup for the primary time within the membership’s historical past in 2014/15.

A four-year spell as forwards and defence coach at Castres Olympique adopted, the place he helped the membership safe a High 14 title in 2018, and he then returned to Oyonnax as director of rugby for the 2019/20 season – the place he was once more answerable for defence, main them again into the High 14 as Professional D2 champions in 2023.

“I’m delighted to bring in someone with Joe’s expertise to our coaching program,” stated Borthwick.

“His data, ardour for the sport, and confirmed expertise in growing high-performing groups, can be key to the squad’s ongoing improvement.

“Joe embodies the qualities we value in the England Rugby team and I am sure he will add to our environment and quickly deliver continued improvements to our game.”

“I feel incredibly honoured to join the England coaching team, and I can’t wait to get started,” added El-Abd.

“I am excited by the direction in which this England team is headed and where they want to go under Steve’s leadership. His enthusiasm is infectious, and his vision for this team is clear.

“Defence is a large a part of the sport and it is one thing I am extraordinarily keen about. I’m excited by the chance to maintain growing a defence that may assist drive England’s success.

“I’d like to thank everyone at Oyonnax rugby, especially Dougal Bendjaballah for understanding my deep desire to coach the England national team.”

The 44-year-old joins Steve Borthwick’s teaching set-up for the forthcoming Autumn Nations Collection and 2025 Guinness Six Nations Championship whereas persevering with his position as director of rugby at Oyonnax.

He’ll mix his obligations with the Professional D2 membership till the conclusion of the 2024/25 season, after which he’ll transition to working solely for England Rugby.

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