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WHEN sacked Australia coach Eddie Jones was spied at New South Wales headquarters earlier this week, Ewen McKenzie's job immediately sprung to mind.
But rather than holding informal talks to replace McKenzie, Jones was looking to poach the cream of Australia's home-grown Super 14 talent to take back overseas.
Moved on by Queensland last May, Jones has since helped guide South Africa to World Cup glory and signed a three-year contract with English club Saracens.
Jones was having deep discussions with Waratahs manager Chris Webb at the SFS poolside cafe.
Armed with a cheque book backed by Saracens' wealthy South African sponsors, Jones was then spotted with Waratahs pivot Kurtley Beale in the SFS carpark.
Wallabies flanker Rocky Elsom was coincidently spotted having coffee the same time Jones was at the cafe, while outside-centre Ben Jacobs is also understood to be on his short list. Adam Freir is another Waratah off contract.
But the four-year Wallabies coach was quick to distance himself from McKenzie's job and ruled out a return to Australia.
"I was just on the way to the dentist," Jones joked.
"No, I've signed for three years with Saracens and I'm just about to buy a house in London.
"NSW wouldn't be interested in me and I'm not interested in them."
On the complex coaching scenario currently unfolding at the Waratahs, Jones offered: "Ewen's done a good job for five years. I question how they're approaching it.
"Either reappoint him or sack him. Don't come out with statements leading everyone down the path that he's not going to be there, then come out and backtrack the next day when the heat gets too hot."
It is understood Waratahs assistant coach Todd Louden will be appointed as McKenzie's successor for next season.