England defence coach Felix Jones is the latest key figure to leave Steve Borthwick’s team.

This happened after strength and conditioning guru Aled Walters left the country to go to Ireland.

It is understood that Jones has a 12-month notice period in his contract with the Rugby Football Union.

However, it is believed that he has resigned after only seven months in this role.

The 37-year-old joined England’s coaching staff following last autumn’s World Cup after helping South Africa win two consecutive world championships.

The Rugby Football Union is not commenting on Jones’ situation, but his decision would be a major setback, especially after Walters’ departure.

The couple worked together in Münster and South Africa and are considered very close friends.

The 37-year-old former Irish international Jones has had a remarkable coaching career so far, winning two Rugby World Cups with the Springboks in 2019 and 2023.

Since replacing Kevin Sinfield as defence coach in January, Jones has been responsible for revolutionising England’s off-the-ball style of play by introducing an aggressive blitz defence and is seen as an important part of the future coaching profession.

Meanwhile, Sinfield’s position is uncertain after he originally announced his intention to leave this summer, just 18 months into a five-year contract.

However, Borthwick confirmed after the recent tour of New Zealand that Sinfield is expected to stay on as a part-time technical coach.

Although Jones is likely still under contract for next year, Borthwick is now looking for a new defensive coach.

The England head coach will also have to recruit a completely new strength and conditioning department after Walters and Tom Tombleson left their posts this month.