Japan qualifiers as Asia 1 RWC 2007

Japan are regulars at Rugby World Cups. Ever present since the first in 1987, they have so far recorded only one match win, that coming in 1991.

You'd think that rugby wouldn't be an ideal sport for the generally diminutive race, but as you were probably told many times as a child "the bigger they are, the harder they fall" and Japan love putting that to the test.

Relying still on some imports, especially to fill back row positions, Japan is now bringing some exciting new blood, Ryo Yamamura, a 25 year old Sumo Wrestler turned Prop will feature in his second World Cup.

Ranked 18th in the world, Japan had to qualify for the Rugby World Cup 2007 and did so with ease, they had a 100% record in their Asian qualifying group, scoring heavily in all their games.

Japan's Rugby World Cup shirtJapan have launched a new shirt for the 2007 Rugby World Cup. The shirt to be seen in France this September is available now. It holds true to the red and white colours normally associated with Japan, though the styling has changed considerably. The Japan Home Rugby Shirt is made by Canterbury but does not have the high level of sophistication applied to Australia and the other top tier nations. To place your order and view other Japanese shirts visit the Japan Shirts page.

Japan Feature In Pool 'B'

With their solitary rugby world cup win in five tournaments, the Japanese are under no illusions when it comes to their chances in France this year. As they line up in pool B against Australia, Wales, Fiji and Canada. Where they will do very well to win any games.

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