Japanese clubs criticised over All Blacks test
Refusal to free players hampers test preparation for Brave Blossoms, says Japan coach Jones
Japan rugby coach Eddie Jones slammed the country's clubs over their lack of support for the national team on the day it was announced that the World Cup-winning All Blacks will play the "Brave Blossoms" in November.
The match in Tokyo on November 2 will be the third official test between the two sides after they met in World Cup games in 1995 and 2011. The All Blacks also played two matches in Japan in 1987, but those games were not awarded test status.
What was supposed to be a mood of celebration for rugby fans in Japan turned sour after former Wallabies coach Jones said some companies and universities were refusing to release their players for the national set-up. "It is vital that once the players hear this announcement that they start preparing like All Blacks," Jones said.
"We need every day we can to prepare to take on the best team in the world. But some of the companies and universities are not releasing their players [for next week's national team camp]."
We need every day we can to prepare to take on the best team in the world. But some of the companies and universities are not releasing their players [for next week's national team camp]
Jones said the attitude of the concerned clubs could hamper Japan's preparation for the prestigious match.