Japan international Kotaro Matsushima to join Clermont Auvergne ahead of 2020/21 season

Clermont Auvergne has confirmed the signing of Japan international Kotaro Matsushima ahead of the 2020/21 season.

The South Africa born star made his professional rugby debut with Sharks in 2013 but moved to Japan joining Japanese Top League side Suntory Sungoliath before the 2014/15 season and has enjoyed two Top League titles with the club. The 26-year-old also featured for Rebels and Sunwolves and now will head to Clermont following departures of Nick Abendanon and Isaia Toeava.

“I want to compete at a high level, for a strong club where I’m needed,” Matsushima said to the official site of the club.

“My wish was to join a great rugby team and a club that really wanted me to be part of its goals.

“The people of Clermont-Ferrand have been in contact with me for a long time and showed a lot of interest in my coming.”

Matsushima went on to represent Japan's national side in 2014 and has gone on to play 39 Tests for the Brave Blossoms during which he scored 22 tries. He was also part of the 2015 and 2019 World Cup squad of Japan during which he played nine games combined crossing over six times.