RWC 2019

Jones can reinvent himself ahead of World Cup

England have lost six out of nine games this year, including a 2-1 series defeat to South Africa in June.

They also finished fifth in the Six Nations, which they entered as champions.

"I would never underestimate his ability to turn things around, very, very quickly. He's been around for a long time, and knows how to reinvent himself and tweak things within a team," World Cup winner Eales told the BBC.

England's slump has come as a shock after an fine run since Jones' appointment in 2015, which included 18 consecutive test wins and two Six Nations titles.

Ex-All Black Charles Piutau wants to play for Tonga

The 26-year-old earned 17 test caps for New Zealand between 2013 and 2015, but was overlooked for the last World Cup squad after signing for Ulster.

He is set to become world rugby's highest-paid player when he switches to English club Bristol next season, where older brother and 'Ikale Tahi captain Siale Piutau is already on the books.

Tonga coach Toutai Kefu said the former Tonga Under 20s representative was keen and would add real quality.

Fiji and Tonga face daunting start to 2019 RWC

The Flying Fijians kick off their campaign against the Wallabies on Saturday September 21st in Sapporo with the 'Ikale Tahi taking on Six Nations champions England at the same venue a day later.

Tongan coach Toutai Kefu said at least they get arguably the toughest match out of the way early.

"There's many ways to look at it but I think it suits us. We play England up the top there in Sapporo and then make our way down the country," he said.

All Blacks to start World Cup defence against Springboks

The All Blacks beat the Springboks at the semi-final stage of the 2015 World Cup in England before going on to defeat Australia in the final.

Steve Hansen's men begin the defence of their title against their fellow-Pool B heavyweights at the International Stadium on September 21 in the 2019 tournament. 

Hosts Japan get the World Cup started a day earlier at Tokyo Stadium versus a European qualifier in Pool A.

England face Tonga at Sapporo Dome on September 22, a day after 2015 runners-up the Wallabies take on Fiji at the same venue.