Spears Out To Impress at Beachcomber 10s
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Loading...MAURITIUS, 11 JUNE 2017 – Japan’s Kubota Spears are an unknown quantity to most people outside of their domestic league, but that is sure to change when they take on some of the world’s best at the Beachcomber World Club 10s at the Anjalay Stadium in Mauritius.
Kubota is drawn in Pool A alongside defending Beachcomber 10s champions the Road Safety Western Force, England’s Harlequins club and the composite Africa Pacific Dragons.
It’s a tough schedule for the team coached by former Vodacom Bulls coach Frans Ludeke, but also a chance for the talented Asian side to demonstrate the improving strength of the Japanese game.
“This is why players and coaches absolutely love the wonderful game of rugby,” Ludeke said. “It takes you to some beautiful countries and places such as Mauritius.
“It also provides the opportunity for players to showcase their skills and ability to play against quality opposition.
“We are so grateful to Carinat Chief Executive Jon Phelps and his team of sponsors of The Beachcomber World Club 10’s tournament for the invite. We appreciate their willingness to go the extra mile to grow the game because for some of the players of Kubota Spears Rugby team this is an opportunity of a lifetime.”
The Spears could come up against Ludeke’s old team the Bulls on day two in the knockout phase of the tournament. Ludeke guided the Bulls to two of their three Super Rugby titles in 2009 and 2010.
Carinat’s Marketing Director Heyneke Meyer, who coached the Bulls to the 2007 Super Rugby title, was a mentor to Ludeke and the pair will meet again at the tournament.
Kubota captain Hiroaki Sugimoto believes that the experience his team will glean at the tournament will be a valuable learning curve as they prepare for their domestic season, which kicks off in August.
“We are delighted for the invite and I believe that it will be a very valuable experience for us,” Sugimoto said.
“It will help us improve our play and lift the level of the team as we build towards the opening of the Japan’s Top League.
“I also would like to work hard so that we make a good impression for Japanese Rugby, which also is hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2019.
“It is my first time to play 10-man rugby, so I’m looking forward to it. Since many players from all over the world will participate, I am looking forward to enjoying a high level of rugby.”
Kubota’s opening game is against Harlequins on Saturday, June 17.
The Beachcomber World Club 10s is fully sanctioned by World Rugby, Rugby Afrique, and Rugby Union Mauritius.
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