5. An Unforgettable Summer of Success
2011 Asian Five Nations and Pacific Nations Cup
As we just touched upon, before the immortalised Eddie Jones era of Japanese rugby, former All Black John Kirwan took charge of the Brave Blossoms. The ex-winger was appointed to the Head Coach role after previous work with Italy, and oversaw Japan’s campaign at the 2007 Rugby World Cup. Despite not winning a match at the tournament, one result could be considered a definite success.
Kirwan took the reigns for Japan’s 12-12 draw against Canada in Pool B, which ended a 16-year run of consecutive losses at the Rugby World Cup. This 13-match losing streak was put to bed, and sparked a slow burning ember, that would turn into the giant-slaying Japan that we see today. Kirwan’s crowing moment as Japan Head Coach came in 2011, as excitement built for the Blossom’s trip to New Zealand for the upcoming Rugby World Cup.
Japan entered their dominated Asian Five Nations as favourites that April, and achieved an expected clean sweep with high-scoring wins over Hong Kong, Kazakhstan, the UAE and Sri Lanka. However, it was Japan’s later success that Summer, that made this an unforgettable year for the Brave Blossoms. John Kirwan led his side to win their first Pacific Nations title in 2011, completing a triumphant run as double champions.
Japan were only able to win the cup in the final play of the tournament, as Yuta Imamura scored his side’s fourth try for a bonus point win over Fiji. This 24-13 win saw Japan leapfrog Tonga to take the competition’s top spot at the last possible moment, in stunning circumstances to decide the Pacific Nations Cup. The crowd in Lautoka couldn’t believe what they had witnessed, in a win that has gone down in the history books amongst rugby’s tier two nations.
4. First Pacific Nations Cup Title – 2011 (After Joining in 2006)
5. Japan Break into the World Rugby Rankings Top 10
First ever victory over Italy ahead of 2015 Rugby World Cup
– Highest Ranking of Seventh (2019)