He has won nine of his 13 games in charge, including tour victories over England, Scotland and Wales this autumn, but finished bottom of last year's Tri Nations table.

BBC: Boks surprised by O'Connell pick

He was sidelined for Wales' autumn series because of an Achilles problem and then missed the start of the Six Nations Championship with a calf injury.

BBC: Henson targets return from injury

He made three appearances as a replacement during the autumn Test series, and was expected to be part of England's squad for their Six Nations opener against Wales last weekend.

BBC: Delon Armitage ban appeal dismissed by RFU