This weekend heralds an exciting time for rugby enthusiasts as the Test window opens. There will be a plethora of captivating matches to behold, including the highly-anticipated confrontation between England and Japan, the Asia Rugby Men’s Championship, and the final qualification tournament for Paris 2024.
Undoubtedly, the pinnacle of the weekend will be England’s reunion with former coach Eddie Jones, who now leads the Japanese national team. This encounter marks the first meeting between England and Jones since his departure in December 2022. Both teams are eager to launch their summer campaign with a triumph, while world champions South Africa and Wales are also primed for an enthralling showdown at Twickenham later in the day.
In addition to these encounters, the Asia Rugby Men’s Championship 2024 final between Hong Kong China and Korea, as well as the final qualification tournament for the Paris 2024 Olympics, will take place. The latter will witness twelve teams competing for the last position in the sevens tournament, with heavyweights such as South Africa, Great Britain, Canada, and Spain all contending for the coveted Olympic qualification.
England’s showdown with Japan in Tokyo marks the commencement of a summer tour that encompasses two Tests in New Zealand. For Jones, this match presents an opportunity to commence his second act with the Brave Blossoms, while England coach Steve Borthwick endeavors to build momentum ahead of their upcoming series against the All Blacks.
Subsequent to the Japan-England clash, attention will shift to Twickenham, where South Africa will confront Wales, and Fiji will face the Barbarians in an exhilarating double-header. Rugby fans are in for a spectacle as both matches are set to showcase a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars from the world of rugby.
Hong Kong China will also be in the spotlight as they vie against Korea in a winner-takes-all culmination to the Asia Rugby Men’s Championship 2024. A triumph for Hong Kong China would secure their fifth championship title, while Korea aspires to overthrow the defending champions in pursuit of claiming the title.
The final element of the weekend’s rugby extravaganza is the World Rugby Sevens Repechage, where the last slot for the Paris 2024 Olympics will be at stake. With twelve teams contending for the solitary position, the competition is expected to be intense as teams vie for the opportunity to represent their nation on the Olympic stage.
Rugby enthusiasts in the UK and Ireland can enjoy all the matches live and free on RugbyPass TV, while global streaming will also be available for most matches. Hence, do not miss the unparalleled weekend of world-class rugby that is bound to leave a lasting impression.