Japan to Play France in November

TOKYO (Jan. 16) – Japan have added another test match to their 2017 schedule with a game away to France on Nov. 25.

The game, at a venue to be decided, will be the 10th meeting between the two nations.

“Japan has played nine test matches against France in the past but has yet to win,” said Japan head coach Jamie Joseph. “As this game in November becomes a milestone, with it being the 10th game, I would like to prepare for a great performance and hopefully celebrate with a win.”

The countries first met in Bordeaux in 1973 with Les Bleus winning 30-18.

They have since met three times in both France and Japan and twice on neutral territory at Rugby World Cups 2003 and 2011, in Australia and New Zealand, respectively.

“French rugby is known as ‘French Flair’ and I’d like to think we have our own Japanese flair to match them,” said Joseph.

Japan will host Romania on June 10 and then Ireland on June 17 and 24.

They open their November campaign at home with a game against Australia.

“November will be a challenging month with the Wallabies game on the 4th. This match against France will be an away game but I hope the fans can support us via TV.”