Japan a long way from Rugby Championship inclusion, says New Zealand Rugby chief Steve Tew
Hong Kong’s main rival needs to get the Sunwolves right before they can be considered for a major competition
Japan may one day be considered for inclusion in the Rugby Championship but the current focus is on improving the competitiveness of the Tokyo-based Sunwolves in Super Rugby, New Zealand’s Steve Tew has said.
With Japan hosting Asia’s first World Cup in 2019, World Rugby vice chairman Agustin Pichot has been vocal about expanding the opportunities for second-tier countries in a bid to grow the game globally.
However, while New Zealand Rugby (NZR) chief executive Tew recognised Japan, who are Hong Kong’s main rival, would benefit from regular competition, he said it was too soon to talk about them joining the All Blacks, Australia, South Africa and Argentina in the Rugby Championship.
“At some stage Japan being considered for the Rugby Championship would be on the table but, clearly, that has to come at a time when they were able to compete,” he said.
“Right now Sanzaar is focused on ensuring the Sunwolves can compete in Super Rugby. That’s the first step, and they’ve clearly got a way to go.”
The Sunwolves were introduced into Super Rugby last year when it was expanded to 18 teams and have struggled to get to grips with the intense competition, winning just three of 30 games in two seasons so far.
