Everything about Japan’s Women’s Rugby Team
With the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup only days away, attention turns to Ireland’s opening Pool C clash against Japan at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton. Kick-off is set for Sunday, August 24 at 12 noon, and the match will be broadcast live on RTÉ2, the RTÉ Player, and with full radio coverage on 2FM.
Who’s in Ireland’s Pool?
Ireland and Japan are grouped in Pool C alongside Spain and reigning champions New Zealand. It is a tough draw, with Ireland hoping to secure progress while facing some well-prepared opponents.
Past Meetings Between Ireland and Japan
The two sides have faced off seven times before, with Ireland winning six of those encounters. At the 2017 World Cup, Ireland claimed a 24-14 victory at the UCD Bowl. More recently, the teams met across three games in 2021 and 2022. Ireland won 15-12 at the RDS, then secured a big 57-22 win in Japan during the first test of their summer tour. However, Japan responded in the second test with a 29-10 victory, their most recent meeting.
Japan’s Current Form
Japan enter the tournament ranked 11th in the world and come off a strong 2025 season. They started with wins against Kazakhstan and Hong Kong in the Asian Championship, then beat the USA Eagles in Los Angeles. They also secured back-to-back wins over Spain before falling 33-15 to Italy earlier this month. Still, in last year’s WXV 2, the Sakura Fifteen struggled, losing all three games against South Africa, Scotland, and Wales.
World Cup History
Japan’s best finish came in 1994 when they placed eighth. In 2017, they finished 11th, and in 2021, they exited in the pool stages without a win. They booked their 2025 spot by winning the Asia Rugby Championship, a competition they have now dominated with six straight titles.
Key Figures in the Squad
The team is coached by Lesley McKenzie, a former Canadian international who has led Japan since 2019. She has guided the side to two consecutive World Cups and hopes to reach the quarter-finals this time. Captain Iroha Nagata, a 26-year-old back-row forward with over 40 caps, is central to their plans. Known for her strength and versatility, she also represented Japan in the 2018 Asian Games with the sevens squad. Rising star Sachiko Kato, who debuted at 17 and had a spell with Exeter Chiefs, adds experience to the midfield, while 20-year-old winger Matsumura Misaki brings speed and flair in attack.
The Challenge Ahead
Ireland will aim to limit the influence of Nagata, Kato, and Misaki to give themselves the best chance of victory. Japan, meanwhile, will look to upset their higher-ranked opponents and keep their World Cup dream alive.
