New Zealand's Test against Japan in October confirmed
The game will be played in Tokyo on 29th October
©Steve Haag
New Zealand will kick-start their end of the year series with a clash against Japan to be played in Tokyo on 29th October.
It will also be the seventh game between the two teams before they head to northern hemisphere.
Following the game against the Brave Blossoms, the All Blacks will be locking horns with Wales at Principality Stadium on 6th November followed by a clash against Scotland on 14th November in Edinburgh.
New Zealand's tour will come to a conclusion with an encounter against England to be played at Twickenham Stadium on 19th November.
“Rugby in Japan has grown its profile in recent years and that’s been reflected in the results of the national team, so the All Blacks will expect a tough Test in Tokyo,” said New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson.
“We are looking forward to building on our relationship with Japan Rugby and our partner Taisho Pharmaceutical in October. Taisho’s support for this fixture has been key and I have no doubt it will be a great occasion seeing the two teams play at the National Stadium.”
Japan head coach Jamie Joseph is delighted with another opportunity of facing New Zealand at home.
“Today’s announcement is tremendous news that will be welcomed by our fans in Japan and around the world. We’re very much looking forward to hosting the All Blacks in Tokyo and playing in front of our home fans.
“We are excited to be now facing New Zealand at home, and then England and France on our European tour, three teams that will be in line to lift the Webb Ellis Cup next year in Paris.
"This is the level of competition that we need to be testing ourselves against, to strengthen our squad ahead of next year’s World Cup.”
