Jones unfazed by cheika s legacy claims 20161202 p5ghjq.html – Breaking News & Latest Updates 2026
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Jones unfazed by Cheika's legacy claims

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England coach Eddie Jones has brushed aside Michael Cheika's claims that he has tarnished his legacy in Australia and insists he's never been disrespectful about his native country.

Cheika launched a remarkable tirade at Jones earlier this week ahead of Saturday's Test at Twickenham after he questioned the Wallabies scrum and sought out a meeting with referee Jaco Peyper before the game.

The war of words between the old Randwick teammates has cranked up interest in the match just five months after Jones' side inflicted a 3-0 series whitewash against Cheika's team, who are seeking to avoid finishing the year with a ninth defeat in 15 games.

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Jones accused the Australian media of being disrespectful to his team last June, pointing the finger at a TV advert that denigrated his side and maintained that stance on Thursday at the team's hotel just outside London.

"Michael Cheika's had a lot to say this week," Jones said.

"He's made some comments about legacy. We'll we don't have anything to do with legacy. It's an uncontrollable part of what happens.

"We believe when we went on the Australian tour, staff and players behaved in a very respectful manner.

"I reinforce again that I found the Australian media disrespectful while we were down there. I don't shy away from those comments.

"The (TV) commercial they put made us out to be a laughing stock to think we could not win a game in Australia."

Jones said he'd not heard from Cheika this week and was unsure if he'd be attending the meeting with Peyper on Friday.

"We've extended an invitation and it will be up to him whether he accepts it or not. I'm not too worried who will attend the party," he said.

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"I'm disappointed he's upset. We'll have a cold beer in the dresing room after the game and he's welcome to join us but I don't control his emotions.

"I think it's been quite interesting this week, it's been fascinating being a bystander watching the world sail past while we're preparing well here."

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