England Rugby has officially announced the appointment of Joe El-Abd as the new defence coach, joining Steve Borthwick’s coaching team for the upcoming Autumn Nations Series.
El-Abd, who had an impressive playing career with Bath Rugby, Bristol, and Toulon, transitioned into coaching after a stint as a player-coach at Oyonnax in 2012. Within two years, he took on a full-time coaching role, focusing on forwards and defence. His leadership contributed to Oyonnax achieving Pro D2 champions status in the 2012/13 season and qualifying for the Champions Cup in 2014/15, marking a significant milestone for the club.
Following his time at Oyonnax, El-Abd served as forwards and defence coach at Castres Olympique, where his efforts were instrumental in securing a Top 14 title in 2018. He later returned to Oyonnax as director of rugby for the 2019/20 season, again leading the team in defence and helping them reclaim their place in the Top 14 as Pro D2 champions in 2023.
“I’m delighted to bring in someone with Joe’s expertise to our coaching program,” said Borthwick. “His knowledge, passion for the game, and proven experience will be essential for the squad’s ongoing development.”
El-Abd expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I feel incredibly honoured to join the England coaching team. I am excited by the direction this England team is heading under Steve’s leadership. Defence is a huge part of the game, and I am eager to develop a strategy that supports England’s success.”
At 44 years old, El-Abd will contribute to the England coaching staff for the upcoming Autumn Nations Series and the 2025 Guinness Six Nations Championship while continuing his responsibilities as director of rugby at Oyonnax. He will maintain this dual role until the end of the 2024/25 season, after which he will focus exclusively on his position with England Rugby.
