Joe El-Abd has been appointed as England’s defence coach, joining Steve Borthwick’s coaching team following the unexpected resignation of Felix Jones last month, the Rugby Football Union announced on Thursday.
El-Abd, 44, is making the switch from French second division club Oyonnax and will be in position for England’s upcoming November internationals against New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Japan. He will continue his role as director of rugby at Oyonnax until the end of the current season before transitioning to a full-time position with the England team.
Borthwick expressed his enthusiasm in a statement, saying, “I’m delighted to bring in someone with Joe’s expertise to our coaching program. His knowledge, passion for the game, and proven experience in developing high-performing teams will be essential for the squad’s ongoing development.”
Borthwick, who was El-Abd’s university flatmate, noted El-Abd’s background as a flanker for Bristol, Toulon, and Oyonnax, where he initially served as a player-coach. El-Abd eventually coached at Castres before returning to Oyonnax, guiding them back to the Top 14 after winning the D2 championship in 2023.
“I feel incredibly honoured to join the England coaching team, and I can’t wait to get started,” El-Abd said. He expressed excitement about the direction of the England team under Borthwick’s leadership, praising his infectious enthusiasm and clear vision.
El-Abd’s responsibilities will include implementing England’s new blitz defence system, which was introduced by Jones prior to his departure after only eight months in the role.