THE England rugby union team has got more than one reason to be thanking Warrington Wolves as they prepare for the Rugby World Cup Final this weekend.

Head coach Eddie Jones and assistant coaches Steve Borthwick and Neal Hartley took in a session at The Halliwell Jones Stadium in March this year.

The group were also joined by Jon Clarke – the former Wire player and strength and conditioning coach who now works as part of Jones' staff.

At the time, Warrington were hoping a few tips from Jones could have helped them maintain their challenge for a maiden Super League title.

The England crew oversaw a training session and spoke with the players and coaching staff.

Speaking at the time, Warrington chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick said: "It is another feather in our cap for England rugby union to want to visit our club and see how we run things here.

"It is important that those within the sports industry share best practices and learn from each other in order to develop and grow, both for our players out on the pitch and our businesses off it.

"As a club we are always open to new and innovative ideas in order to stay at the forefront of rugby league and visits such as this are invaluable.

"It was a pleasure to be able to return the gesture, with some of our performance team having gained a lot from previous visits down to them on their turf."

 

After going on to win the Challenge Cup following the England coach's visit, staff at Warrington Wolves are now hoping former colleague Jon Clarke and the rest of the team will have their hands on the Web Ellis Cup this weekend.

England take on South Africa in the final in Japan at 9am on Saturday.

Warrington Guardian:

From left, England rugby union head coach Eddie Jones, Jon Clarke, Steve Price, England assistant coaches Neal Hartley and Steve Borthwick. Picture by Warrington Wolves

Warrington Guardian:

Jones and Price watch on as The Wire are put through their paces. Picture by Warrington Wolves

Warrington Guardian:

Eddie Jones in conversation with Wire winger Josh Charnley. Picture by Warrington Wolves