The boss of World Rugby wants Japan to play more against the best

Tokyo (AFP)

Japan, qualified for the first time in the quarterfinals of the World Cup that it organizes, could in the future play more matches against the best nations in the world: in any case the wish expressed by the President on Tuesday of World Rugby Bill Beaumont.

"Japan is currently seventh in the world, and when you see that it beat the second world nation (Ireland 19-12, ed), we stop and we become aware," said Beaumont.

"What we are trying to do is look at all our tournaments, all our competitions, so that we can have more meetings between the members of the + one + + and Japan," he added.

Because in world rugby, there are two categories of nations. On one side the "Tier One", the top 10 established, including the Six European Nations (England, Scotland, France, Ireland, Italy, Wales) and the four Rugby Championship (South Africa, Argentina, Australia) , New Zealand). On the other side, all the others. And between the two, a gap that would like to fill the so-called secondary teams, Japan - and Fiji - in mind.

In fact, the "Brave Blossoms" are already part of the world's elite, if we refer to the ranking of World Rugby, where Japan (7th) exceeds France (8th), Scotland (9th). ), Argentina (10th) and Italy (12th). These last three nations being eliminated from the World Cup will return its verdict on November 2nd.

"If I were the treasurer of any country, I would love to play against Japan, because we know they will attract a lot of spectators," added Beaumont.

According to him, fans would rush to see "an incredible style of rugby that mixes speed and accuracy". "For many well-established federations, they have almost changed the way rugby should be played."

Winner in 2015 of South Africa (34-32), Japan reoffended against Ireland and Scotland (28-21) in 2019. In 2017, he also brought back a draw from France (23- 23). "Feats" that could multiply as opportunities arise for the Japanese.

One obstacle however: international matches, except competitions and established tours, are usually planned twelve years in advance ...

© 2019 AFP