30 Nov 2011

New England coach not likely until after 6-Nations

6:41 am on 30 November 2011

The BBC is reporting that England's Rugby Football Union will not name a new permanent England coach until after next year's Six Nations.

Current assistant Graeme Rowntree and Saxons coach Stuart Lancaster will take temporary charge for the tournament starting in February.

The RFU want a full-time replacement for Martin Johnson in place before England tour South Africa in June.

Nick Mallett and Jim Mallinder are among those tipped for the role.

Northampton director of rugby Mallinder has declared an interest in the job, while former Italy and South Africa coach Mallett said he would consider it but not until after the Six Nations.

Also in the running are Jake White and Eddie Jones, who jointly coached South Africa to win the 2007 World Cup, and two former All Blacks who are now established coaches, John Kirwan and Wayne Smith.