Kotaro Matsushima

Victorious Japan kick off Asia’s first Rugby World Cup in style

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was among the home fans decked out in red and white replica shirts as Kotaro Matsushima’s hat-trick ensured a 30-10 bonus-point win over Russia
The six-week tournament promises to be one of the most open in history with several teams considered capable of denying New Zealand an unprecedented third straight title

By AFP · 20 September 2019