The Wallabies’ date with Eddie Jones has been confirmed, with the men in gold to face Japan in Tokyo en route to Europe for their end of year tour.
After months of speculation, Rugby Australia confirmed the Wallabies would take on the Brave Blossoms on October 25.
The clash at the National Stadium will kick start a massive Spring Tour, with the Wallabies in conversations to play five Tests in total.
“Rugby Australia and Japan Rugby Football Union enjoy a strong, productive relationship and share a rich rugby tradition,” RA chief executive Phil Waugh said.
“We are delighted the Wallabies will play the Brave Blossoms in front of a large, passionate crowd in Tokyo and thank JRFU President Masato Tsuchida, JRFU Chairman Kensuke Iwabuchi and their administration for the opportunity.
“The Test match will also serve as excellent preparation for the Wallabies ahead of the Autumn Internationals in the northern hemisphere.”
Eddie Jones’ Japan will host the Wallabies on October 25. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)
Not only will the clash against Japan be the first between the two nations since 2021, but it will also be the first time the Wallabies see Jones since the coach walked out on Australian rugby following the 2023 World Cup.
His decision to call time just one season through a five-year deal rocked Australian rugby and came after engaged in meetings with the Japan Rugby Football Union on the eve of the World Cup.
“Ideally we’d have a position before Super Rugby – and we’re really excited about what Super Rugby is going to deliver this year – and we don’t want to distract from the start of Super Rugby on February 14,” he said.
Jones, meanwhile, is under pressure to hold onto his job after managing just four wins from 11 Tests last year as he turned to youth and continued his desire to try and change the way rugby is played.
The Wallabies have not lost to Japan in six meetings.
