Brave new world: Japan braces for ‘anything-can-happen’ World Cup | Robert Kitson

The defending champions New Zealand look mortal and the chasing pack sense the opportunity to lift the Webb Ellis CupThe sumo wrestlers of Japan will have competition for the next seven weeks. Suddenly there will be big men everywhere, blocking out the light and vying for mass attention. The first Rugby World Cup to be staged in Asia is the most significant in history for those trying to promote the oval-ball gospel beyond its familiar heartlands. To ensure that happens the 2019 tournament has to make its presence felt.It is not just about conquering new markets, either. Make no mistake, rugby…