The Wallabies will be eliminated from the tournament’s group stage for the first time after being thrashed 40-6 by Wales on Sunday.

After losing against Fiji, Australia’s chances of achieving the top-two Pool C place required to advance are minimal.

Jones, who was only appointed coach of Australia in January, has taken much of the blame for the two-time world champions’ poor performances.

He was also chastised after an article in the Sydney Morning Herald on the morning of the Wales game revealed that he had covertly interviewed for the Japan coaching position just weeks before the World Cup began. Jones refuted this during a press conference following Wales’ defeat.

While calling the Wales encounter as a “train wreck” for Australia, Mortlock believes Jones should stay in command of a young Wallabies team and guide them to the 2027 World Cup, which Australia will host.

“Eddie, as a coach and leader, is accountable, and he says this,” Mortlock said on the BBC’s Rugby Union Daily podcast. “I admire him for wearing it.

“But the worst thing Australia can do is fire him, saying he’s not the best man for the job after only six months.” Support your man; you chose him for a reason.

“It’s about our country’s rugby for the next four years.” He gambled on youth for this World Cup; perhaps he would not have done so if Australia had been drawn in a tougher pool.”

Australia trailed Wales 29-6 after 50 minutes, their chances of salvaging the game all but gone.