South Africa have secured the services of former Australia coach Eddie Jones as technical adviser for the World Cup finals, SA Rugby confirmed yesterday.

"We believe his vast knowledge of the game and his outstanding coaching credentials will be of great benefit and significance to the Springboks as they prepare . . . for the Rugby World Cup crown," SA Rugby's manager of national teams Andy Marinos said in a statement.

Jones was publicly criticised in Australia last month after media reports of his imminent appointment but he told a news conference he was comfortable with the decision.

"I don't think I've done anything disloyal," Jones said in Durban where he has been working with the South African squad. "I gave Australian rugby good service, and Australian rugby served me well."

Jones took the Wallabies to the 2003 final. South Africa coach Jake White said he would not ask Jones to expose the Australians' secrets. White said. "I don't want to know about the Wallabies, I want to know about how he can help us improve."

Jones will join Saracens after the World Cup.