England boss Eddie Jones has sent a message to Warren Gatland after the New Zealander gave his thoughts on Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final.
England, who dominated The All Blacks to earn their spot in the last two, will take on South Africa who edged past Wales 19-16 in Yokohama.
“We have seen in previous World Cups that teams sometimes play their final in semi-finals and don’t always turn up for a final,” Gatland said.
“So it will be interesting to see how England are next week.”
Jones, who is not one to shy away from a verbal battle, has now hit back at his old rival.
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“Send my best wishes to Warren, I hope he enjoys the third-fourth place match,” he said with a grin.
In some positive news for the Red Roses, Jones is confident that winger Jonny May will be fit to take on the Springboks after picking up a knock in their 19-7 semi-final triumph.
“We had a walk through this morning and we had to tell Jonny to slow down a bit,” Jones added.
“He is probably in better condition that he was last week at this stage. Immeasurably better.
“We have got a few others carrying bumps and bruises because it was a tough old game.
“Owen [Farrell] is a bit sore but he will be fine.
“We’ve had a day or two of recovery, we started doing a little bit of preparation today but the players understand that they haven’t done anything yet.
“The most important week is coming up and we’re excited to be here.
“The only thing I sense is excited about what the team can achieve this week.”
England’s third Rugby World Cup final appearance will also be held at the International Stadium in Yokohama, kicking off 9am GMT (6pm local time) on Saturday November 2.
England beat hosts Australia in 2003 but lost to South Africa four years later in France, with the Springboks having also been victorious back in 1995.