Following the decision to combine the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the French tournament, Japan national team coach Jamie Joseph head coach said, "We are aiming to advance to the playoffs. The goal is the best eight."
The Rugby World Cup combination lottery to be held in France in 2023 was held in Paris on the 14th, and Japan entered Group D of the first league, ranked 2nd in the world ranking and 2nd in the previous tournament, and 8th in the world. It was decided to play against Argentina and others.
Coach Joseph Head said in a press conference online, "I waited for the draw with excitement because it was the next World Cup that was successful in Japan last year. I will play against a very powerful country. England and Argentina Will be a game of physical strength. "
On top of that, regarding the future strengthening plan, "I want to take advantage of Japan's goodness and fight. I have time to prepare for the next three years, so I will strengthen the scrum, line, and defense. The challenge is how many players can be held here. "
"Of course, we are aiming to advance to the playoffs, so we have to create a team that can win. It will be a form of controlling a close game rather than a 30-point difference. The goal is the best eight," he said.
The tournament will start on September 8, 2023 and the final will be held on October 21st.