Wallabies set for Jones reunion as Japan Test announced

Fri, Jan 31, 2025, 4:58 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Wallabies faced off against a strong Japanese side in Oita

The Wallabies will reunite with old coach Eddie Jones as they prepare to face Japan in Tokyo on October 25.

It will be the first Test of their 2025 end-of-year tour, with the sides last facing each other in 2021.

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Jones coached the Wallabies at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, with the former England boss returning to Japan at the start of 2024.

The Australians are unbeaten against the Japanese in their six meetings, with the two nations signing of Memorandum of Understanding in 2023.

“Rugby Australia and Japan Rugby Football Union enjoy a strong, productive relationship and share a rich rugby tradition," RA CEO Phil Waugh said in a statement.

“We are delighted the Wallabies will play the Brave Blossoms in front of a large, passionate crowd in Tokyo and thank JRFU President Masato Tsuchida, JRFU Chairman Kensuke Iwabuchi and their administration for the opportunity.

“The Test match will also serve as excellent preparation for the Wallabies ahead of the Autumn Internationals in the northern hemisphere.”

It marks the first time the Wallabies will face the Brave Blossoms in Tokyo, most recently taking out the 32-23 in Oita.

"We are both delighted and honoured to welcome the Wallabies back to Japan for the first time since 2021," JRFU Chairman Kensuke Iwabuchi said.

"Hosting Australia at Tokyo’s National Stadium promises to be a spectacular occasion, and we look forward to welcoming the many Australian fans who live here in Japan, as well as those travelling from abroad.

"As the hosts of the next men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027, Australia’s visit is sure to evoke fond memories of our own World Cup in 2019—not only for Brave Blossoms fans, but also for the large Wallaby contingent who contributed so much to the spectacle and atmosphere of the tournament.”

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