**Eddie Jones Speaks Out on Jac Morgan Ruck Controversy Following Lions’ Triumph Over Australia**
Japan head coach Eddie Jones has publicly weighed in on the contentious clearout by Wales’ Jac Morgan during the pivotal British and Irish Lions victory over Australia, a moment that has sparked widespread debate within the rugby world.
The incident in question unfolded during the crucial stages of the second Test in Melbourne, just prior to Hugo Keenan’s decisive try that ensured a Lions series win. With Australian flanker Carlo Tizzano caught in the ruck, Morgan executed a clearout manoeuvre that, although deemed legal by the match officials, has since divided opinion. Several Australian supporters, and commentators, argue referee Andrea Piardi erred by not penalising Morgan, suggesting the decision directly impacted the outcome of the series.
Appearing on the Rugby Unity podcast, Jones offered an unequivocal defence of both Morgan’s actions and Piardi’s decision. He noted, “If that clearout had been penalised, you’d virtually be removing the cleanout from rugby altogether. There was nothing more Jac Morgan could have done within the laws of the game.” Jones clarified that while there was contact with Tizzano’s head—a key factor in many dangerous play discussions—Morgan’s technique remained within the legal framework demanded at elite level.
Expanding on his point, Jones warned that challenging clearouts like Morgan’s could fundamentally change the nature of rugby, stating, “If physicality at the breakdown is not allowed, we might as well dispense with rucks entirely and move to something more akin to league’s ‘play-the-ball’.”
Reflecting on the game’s broader context, Jones observed that Australia had begun the match strongly and led at half-time. He said the Wallabies had a golden opportunity to capitalise in the opening minutes of the second period but were ultimately undone by lapses in consistency and tactical discipline—a recurring theme for the side in recent years. “Australia are heading in the right direction and put in a very respectable performance, but it’s those fine margins and tactical focus that separate the elite from the rest,” he commented.
Adding further weight to the official decision, highly respected former referee Nigel Owens also gave his assessment, describing Morgan’s clearing as “textbook” and technically flawless. Speaking to BBC Radio Wales, Owens explained, “What matters is whether Morgan came in low and used his arms correctly. If he had led with the shoulder or failed to wrap, it would have rightly been penalised for foul play. But his actions conformed precisely to what’s required by the laws.”
The furore over Morgan’s clearout has somewhat overshadowed what has been a historic moment for the Lions. Securing the series with an emphatic win and a game to spare marks the first time since 1997 that the British and Irish team have claimed a tour victory so early. The match at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground also drew a record crowd, with over 90,000 rugby fans witnessing a clash that will be remembered for its drama and significance.
Despite the Wallabies’ improvement after a disappointing first Test, and standout contributions from players such as Joseph Suaali’i and Tom Wright, it was the Lions’ resolute performance that stole the headlines. The hosts, now left to fight for pride in the final Test, will look to salvage consolation, while the Lions have their eyes on a potential clean sweep—a feat not achieved in 98 years, dating back to their Argentine adventure.
As the dust settles, the debate around physicality, player safety, and officiating standards shows little sign of abating. Yet for the Lions, the focus is firmly on further cementing their legacy in international rugby folklore. For the Wallabies, it is a moment to reflect, recalibrate, and look ahead to future challenges.
This latest episode underlines the intensity and passion that continues to fuel rugby union’s fiercest contests—and ensures that every decision, and every moment, will be dissected for years to come.