Defensive guru John Mitchell believes England have the potential to do “some special things” after pledging his future by signing a two-and-a-half-year contract extension.
The new deal will see the New Zealander work with the Red Rose until the end of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, having joined Eddie Jones’ coaching staff in September 2018.
Since joining the England set-up, the 56-year-old has helped Jones guide the team to the 2019 Rugby World Cup final and the 2020 Guinness Six Nations title.
England also added the inaugural Autumn Nations Cup to their trophy cabinet and ahead of their Championship defence, Mitchell is relishing the opportunity to carry on his work.
Mitchell said: “I’m really happy to sign this contract extension. I’m thoroughly enjoying my time here with England and working with such a talented group of players, coaches and staff.
Guinness Six Nations Round 1 Team Announcements
“It takes a long time to really build these relationships and I wanted to continue to carry on the work that we’re all doing to achieve just what we’re capable of here with England.
“I also think it’s the right place for me to evolve and challenge myself as a coach, I’m learning all the time and that’s only going to help me to improve the players and contribute more to this team.
And Jones expressed his delight at Mitchell’s decision to extend his contract.
“I’m very pleased to have Mitch here with us as we work to our goal of winning the World Cup in 2023,” he said.
“He’s an experienced and skilled Test coach and adds great value to the coaching staff and player development.”
England open their Guinness Six Nations campaign this weekend at Twickenham Stadium, where they will face Scotland in the Calcutta Cup on Saturday (4.45pm KO).
The defending champions will then take on Italy at home on Saturday, 13 February (2.15pm KO) before playing Wales away on Saturday 27 February (4.45pm KO).
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England will return to Twickenham to face France on March 13 before travelling to Dublin the following weekend for their final game, against Ireland, on March 20.
