Japan prop Hatakeyama signs short-term deal with Newcastle

Hatakeyama has 72 caps for the Brave Blossoms and was marked as a must-watch player during the 2015 RWC. He is heading to England shortly to play for Newcastle on a short-term contract.

“I’m really glad I was given an opportunity to prove myself in the Premiership,” he said in a statement released by the Japan Rugby Football Union. "I believe this challenge with Newcastle Falcons will be a wonderful experience and a chance to improve my rugby, and I’m looking forward to it.”

Hatakeyama recently turned down an offer to play for Japan’s new Super Rugby team, the Sunwolves,