Japan Rugby League One is set to become an even more significant force in international rugby, as it prepares for the upcoming season with an expanded number of teams and a growing reputation for developing top-tier talent. Chairman Genichi Tamatsuka is confident that the league offers the “perfect preparation” for elite international players, especially following the intense competition seen in the Rugby Championship and Pacific Nations Cup this summer.
A Growing Reputation
While some may still view the league as a less physically demanding option for players seeking lucrative deals, Tamatsuka highlights its role in honing the skills of the world’s best athletes. He points to standout performances like that of Mie Heat’s Pablo Matera, who played a key role in Argentina’s historic 38-30 win over the All Blacks in August. Matera’s powerful display, fresh from his 100th test appearance, is just one example of how the league helps players perform at the highest level.
The league has also become a popular destination for South African talent. Seven Springboks from the team that recently triumphed over New Zealand are set to join Japan Rugby League One next season. Key players like scrumhalf Faf de Klerk, second-rower Lood de Jager, and Francois Mostert, despite recent injuries, remain central to the league’s success.
International Impact
The league’s influence on global rugby is undeniable. Of the 30 players who started the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, 12 went on to play in Japan Rugby League One. The list includes South African stars like Cheslin Kolbe, Jesse Kriel, and Damien de Allende, who continue to contribute to their national team’s success while also excelling in Japan. Players from other major rugby nations, such as Wallabies winger Marika Koroibete and All Blacks star Beauden Barrett, are also showcasing their talents in Japan.
Beyond the Rugby Championship, Japan Rugby League One has become a proving ground for players from teams like Samoa. Shimizu Blue Sharks’ Murphy Taramai made a notable impact in Samoa’s win over Italy, while other league players continue to make their mark on the international stage.
Expanding the League
As Japan Rugby League One grows, it will welcome three new teams across its three divisions for the upcoming season, which begins on December 21. SECOM RUGGUTs, Yakult Levins, and LeRIRO Fukuoka will join Division Three, with hopes of climbing through the ranks. Division One will now feature 12 teams, and Division Two expands to eight.
Interest in joining the league is booming, with many clubs eager to participate. According to Chief Operating Officer Hajime Shoji, the league selected the new teams based on strict criteria, but the potential for future growth is evident.
With exciting players, new teams, and a reputation for top-level competition, Japan Rugby League One is ready for another thrilling season. The league’s playoffs will culminate in the final on June 1 in Tokyo, and fans can look forward to a season filled with world-class rugby action.
