2019 Autumn Internationals – Japan vs South Africa Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Japan vs South Africa taking place? Friday 6th September, 10:45 (UK)
Where is Japan vs South Africa taking place? Kumagaya Rugby Stadium, Kumagaya
What is the expected weather for Japan vs South Africa? 28c with clouds in the air in what will be extremely humid conditions
What channel is Japan vs South Africa on? Japan vs South Africa will be not be shown live in the UK
Where can I stream Japan vs South Africa? N/A
Where can I get tickets for Japan vs South Africa? Check http://en.rugby-japan.jp/ticke... for ticket information
What was the score in the last meeting? South Africa 32-34 Japan
THE TEAM NEWS
JAPAN
- Japan will look to build on their form in the IRB Pacific Nations Cup as they face a tough test ahead of hosting the World Cup as they face South Africa for the first time since their famous win at the last World Cup.
- In their one and only meeting, Japan were magnificent as they shocked the world back in 2015 with a brilliant 34-32 win over the Springboks but this will be a different task against an in-form South Africa.
- The Japanese are likely to name an experimental team here to give as many players as possible a chance to shine ahead of the World Cup opener with hooker Takuya Kitade likely to make his international debut.
SOUTH AFRICA
- South Africa will hope to continue their good run of form in their final warm-up game ahead of the World Cup as they face a Japan side that will be eager to claim a big scalp on home soil.
- The Springboks have named a formidable side for this game with 22 of the 23 players that earned a draw with the All Blacks during the Rugby Championship in their clash in July as they look for a big win to take into the World Cup with them.
- Captain Siya Kolisi is the only change to the side from that New Zealand game but he returned from injury to face Argentina in their previous warm-up game and will lead his country once again here.
THE PREDICTION
South Africa have shaped as one of the pre-tournament favourites for the Rugby World Cup after a string of superb performances. They face Japan in their final warm-up game in a contest that should allow them to acclimatise to the conditions they will come up against at the World Cup. The Springboks have named a very strong line-up which will not be far off the side that lines-up against New Zealand in their opening game and as such, they should be able to claim a comfortable win.
