Aussie radio star in surprise bid for Wallaby coach job

0 Comments | AFP, October, 2007

SYDNEY (AFP) — Australia's search for a new coach after its humiliating quarter-final exit at the World Cup has taken a surprise turn with ageing radio shock-jock Alan Jones throwing his hat into the ring.

Jones, 66, who guided the Wallabies to a famous Grand Slam win against British teams in 1984 but has not coached for 20 years, won both support and derision after announcing he was available to replace John Connolly.

"I'm obligated to put my hand up ... I'm available," Jones said after his name was first mentioned Wednesday by Queensland rugby's Peter Lewis.

"If Queensland have gone public today, the matter is very serious -- this is not flippancy."

But old foe Eddie Jones, another former Wallabies mentor who joined the Springbok coaching team...