England Captain Jamie George Expresses Confidence Ahead of Japan Clash
On February 24th, England captain Jamie George expressed confidence in his team’s abilities as they prepare to face Eddie Jones’ Japan in their upcoming summer series opener at the National Stadium in Tokyo this Saturday. The 33-year-old Saracens hooker, who boasts 90 international caps, will lead his side into the eagerly anticipated clash, which will be aired live and free in the UK and Ireland on RugbyPass.TV.
Bold Selection Decisions by Eddie Jones
The former England head coach Jones, who is embarking on his second stint in charge of Japan, is known for his bold selection decisions. True to form, he has chosen to hand a senior debut to the highly-rated 20-year-old Waseda University student Yoshitaka Yazaki at full-back. Yazaki, who resides in a dormitory with 150 fellow students, caught Jones’ eye after impressing for the Japan XV development team against the Fiji Warriors in the World Rugby Pacific Challenge back in April. With his pace and footwork drawing comparisons to Japan’s long-time leading full-back Kotaro Matsushima, Yazaki’s inclusion has certainly piqued the interest of rugby enthusiasts.
“Eddie wouldn’t have made the decision without confidence in what kind of game he wants to play,” the England captain stated.
Targeting the Inexperienced Yazaki
As for any plans to target the inexperienced Yazaki, George did not hold back, asserting that the recently-turned 20-year-old will have his work cut out for him on his Brave Blossoms debut.
“I don’t think there’s a full-back in the world who’ll want to play against us in terms of the athletes that compete against us in the air,” George warned.
Jones, on the other hand, has expressed his belief that Yazaki has the necessary maturity to handle the occasion on Saturday. The Australian coach has highlighted the youngster’s prowess as a “great rugby student” with a bright future in Japanese rugby.
Potential Threats Identified
Ahead of the clash, the England squad has closely studied the League One final and the Toshiba team, with George singling out hooker Mamoru Harada as a player they have identified as a potential threat due to his scrummaging ability.
With the stage set for an intriguing encounter, rugby enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the showcasing of the rising talent in Japanese rugby, as well as the clinical execution of the experienced England side under the leadership of Jamie George.
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