England Rugby has officially confirmed Joe El-Abd as their new defense coach. A pivotal role that he will take on while balancing his current duties as head coach of the French club Oyonnax for the remainder of the season. As England prepares for the Autumn Internationals Tickets, El-Abd will join the squad in time for their four November Tests.
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El-Abd, who has a longstanding friendship with England’s national head coach Steve Borthwick. Will join the England squad in time for their four November Tests. He is set to be the long-term successor to Felix Jones. Who made waves earlier this summer by announcing his departure from the England coaching staff. Leaving the RFU in need of a new defensive leader.
Jones, a double World Cup-winning coach with South Africa. Is still technically part of the England set-up but has been working remotely. Focusing primarily on tactical analysis and development during his 12-month notice period. His decision to leave came as a surprise to many in the RFU. Especially given his contributions to the team’s progress.
As Jones continues to fulfill his notice period in a limited capacity. The England team will now look to El-Abd to take the reins in a crucial role. Particularly given the importance of defense in modern rugby. El-Abd’s appointment is significant not just for his coaching expertise, but also for his close ties to Borthwick.
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Autumn Internationals 2025 Tickets: El-Abd’s Role in England’s November Tests
The two have known each other for many years, having been university housemates and teammates at Bath Rugby. And this deep connection is expected to be instrumental in their working relationship. El-Abd, 44, brings a wealth of experience, having made his mark in French rugby. Where he was a key part of Castres’ success in winning the prestigious TOP14 title.

His move to Oyonnax further solidified his reputation as a top coach, and his leadership there helped the club develop into a formidable force in the French league. El-Abd’s new role with England comes at a time of great change and opportunity for the national team, with fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming Autumn Internationals 2025 Tickets for these exciting matches are expected to be in high demand.
England’s upcoming November Tests will be a critical challenge, as they face tough competition from New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Japan on four consecutive weekends. These matches will be pivotal in shaping the squad’s progress, especially with the 2025 Rugby World Cup looming on the horizon. El-Abd’s defensive expertise will be key to England’s ability to compete at the highest level.
Borthwick has expressed his confidence that El-Abd’s knowledge, passion, and experience will bring significant improvements to the team’s defensive strategies. Despite the excitement surrounding his appointment, El-Abd will continue his responsibilities with Oyonnax for the rest of the 2024/25 season, balancing both roles in what is sure to be a demanding schedule.
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Autumn Internationals 2025: El-Abd’s Dual Role and Borthwick’s Confidence
The RFU and Oyonnax have come to an equally agreeable deal, allowing El-Abd to remain with his club while beginning his work with England in preparation for the autumn Tests and the 2025 Six Nations. This dual vow reflects El-Abd’s deep fervor for the game and his desire to make a major impact at the international level while ensuring a smooth transition between his club and national responsibilities.
Borthwick, who has faced significant challenges in recent months, including the departure of key figures like Jones and the loss of head of strength and conditioning Aled Walters to Ireland, was keen to secure a coach who could contribute immediately to the team’s development. In El-Abd, he has found a coach with the right blend of experience, tactical insight, and leadership qualities.

Borthwick has praised El-Abd for his ability to develop high-performing teams and his understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level. I’m delighted to bring in someone with Joe’s expertise, Borthwick said in a statement following the announcement. His experience will be crucial as England prepares for the Autumn Internationals 2025.
His knowledge, passion for the game, and proven skill in developing high-performing teams will be key to the squad’s ongoing growth. Joe embodies the qualities we value, and I am sure he will add to our setting and quickly deliver continued improvements to our game. The partnership between El-Abd and Borthwick is expected to bring solidity and a renewed purpose to England following recent upheavals.
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