At the Rugby World Cup, politics and verbal weaponry abound

A Tuesday media appearance with Owen Farrell and Eddie Jones sparked speculation and feather-ruffling

Farrell (left) and Jones at the press conference (Getty)

The text message arrives. “Eddie, Mitchell and Farrell top table.” A quick glance at the date confirms it is only Tuesday. “This isn’t right, surely? Something’s up.”

From the moment that it’s announced that rugby coach Eddie Jones will be up for media duties two days ahead of schedule – and bringing captain Owen Farrell with him – speculation is rife about what has caused the sudden change of heart.

Normally, Jones and Farrell will only speak to the media on team announcement and match days, though last weekend the England boss helpfully waited until Sunday to speak publicly so that the identity of their quarter-final opponents could be discovered.