All Blacks and Japan Rugby confirm 2018 Test

The All Blacks will return to Japan in 2018 as part of the team’s build-up to Rugby World Cup 2019.

The Test will be played on 3 November 2018, with the venue to be confirmed later this year when the locations for Rugby World Cup 2019 are announced.

The All Blacks will fly to Japan to prepare for the Test match before heading onto Europe for the All Blacks annual Northern European Tour.

Speaking at the media conference, NZR Chief Executive Steve Tew said the Test met several objectives.

“Interest in rugby in Japan is on a high and will only build as we get closer to Rugby World Cup 2019. The Test will not only provide a great opportunity to prepare for the 2018 end of year tour, it also gives the team first-hand experience of playing in Japan less than a year out from the tournament.

“Playing in Japan is always a highlight. Their fans love the game and are great supporters of the All Blacks and New Zealand rugby. Our partners adidas and AIG are also very active in using our players in the region in various campaigns and promotions, so I expect there will be keen interest in the match.”