Springbok loose forward Kwagga Smith's departure from Japanese club Shizuoka Blue Revs has been confirmed, with the 32-year-old strongly linked with a return to South Africa to join the Bulls.
Japan edged Fiji 20-15 for the first time since 2019 on Saturday, securing them the 2026 Pacific Nations Cup in the process.
Springbok Lood de Jager is set to return to the field in Japan this weekend after seven months off due to hip surgery.
The Japan Rugby Football Union have suspended head coach Eddie Jones for six weeks for verbally abusing match officials.
Japan head coach Eddie Jones has criticised World Rugby's decision to stage Japan's Nations Championship clash against Ireland in Australia.
Japan head coach Eddie Jones has hailed Springbok boss Rassie Erasmus as a "rugby guru", praising his detailed approach and innovative thinking in the game.