INSIDE Wales’ Captain’s Run Ahead of Crucial Japan Showdown

A session that is traditionally the final rehearsal before match day, and during the 15-minute window open to the media, the calmness and relaxation of a Wales side, who, if they lose tomorrow, will hinder their World Cup hopes, was clear to see.

It offered a slight insight into Tandy's side’s intent and tempo as they fine-tuned their details ahead of the clash against the Brave Blossoms. There were also lots of smiles, laughter, and mickey-taking that were clearly visible and audible.

Nicky Smith and Alex Mann led the way out of the tunnel, turning left, where players gathered balls ahead of running over to the far side to do passing drills. Dan Edwards, who made his first start for Wales at Principality Stadium, was offloading to Ben Thomas.

And with the atmosphere among the group appearing to be relaxed, Rhys Carre made a questionable spiral kick into the far corner, with Tomos Williams and Matt Sherratt jokingly speaking to each other.

But then all of a sudden, a switch in the mood came as Huw Bennett, Head of Physical Performance, blew his whistle, which echoed around the stadium.

Intensity was lifted under the closed roof, where conditions outside the stadium were rather damp in the Welsh capital due to Storm Claudia.

A lot cooler than the excessive heat in both Kitakyushu and Kobe in the summer. Bennett led the group on Friday morning as a small contingent of fans watched on, offering encouragement.

There were structured drills and a few set-piece drills, which mainly included lineout drills with the captain, Dewi Lake, and Liam Belcher throwing to Freddie Thomas, who was positioned at the top of a ladder. In the small time, the media were allowed to watch Dan Lydiate, Danny Wilson, Sherratt, and Tandy watched on from the other 22, as Wales kept their game plan off camera.

That game plan will mainly be based on a strong defence and breakdown discipline, two areas where Japan are strong, especially in their desire for quick ball in hand.

As Wales’ main kickers, Edwards, Thomas and Jarrod Evans, with the tutelage of Rhys Patchell watching on, went through their final preparations, and speaking after the Captain’s Run, Dewi Lake said: “We’re expecting a very quick game.