Japan Clinches Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Qualification with Dominant Display
Japan’s Sakura 15s secured their ticket to the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 with a resounding 64-0 victory over Kazakhstan in the Asia Rugby Women’s Championship 2024 held in Hong Kong. This win marks Japan’s eighth team to qualify for the prestigious tournament.
The reigning Asian champions showcased their prowess, running in 10 tries during a dominant performance at King’s Park Sports Ground. Fly-half Ayasa Otsuka was a standout performer, contributing 19 points with a try and seven conversions.
“We had a good result. Rather than focusing on them, we focused on us and what we’ve been doing,” said Japan captain Iroha Nagata. “It was [part of the] process to get to the Rugby World Cup and we’ve got to keep working hard to bring the team to a higher level.”
Japan’s victory not only secures their place in WXV 2 2024 in South Africa but also qualifies them for the Women’s RWC 2025 in England, joining the Red Roses, New Zealand, France, Canada, Ireland, South Africa and USA as confirmed participants.
The Sakura 15s made a blistering start, with prop Sachiko Kato and center Haruka Hirotsu scoring early tries to set the tone. Otsuka’s accurate kicking kept the scoreboard ticking, and Ayano Nagai, Nagata, and Sakurako Korai all crossed the line before the break.
The second half saw Japan maintain their dominance, with Otaka Yoshimura, replacement prop Manami Mine, Nao Ando, and Miharu Machida adding to the try count. Otsuka capped off her impressive performance with a try of her own to complete Japan’s comprehensive victory.
The Asia Rugby Women’s Championship will conclude on Saturday, with Hong Kong China taking on Kazakhstan for the chance to qualify for WXV 3 in Dubai and join Japan at the Women’s RWC 2025.
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