International & Sevens · Roundup

International & Sevens — Friday 22 May 2026

Friday 22 May 2026

Match of the Day

Sakura Sevens: Japan Navigate Mixed Results at 50th Hong Kong SVNS

Japan's Sakura Sevens found moments of brilliance, notably dominating Brazil with a commanding 34–7 victory, but their elimination campaign showcased a troubling pattern of slow starts. The Japanese side participated in the historic 50th Hong Kong SVNS World Championship, proving capable of peak performance but faltering in the critical moments. After getting started with a strong 12–5 win against Fiji, Japan suffered a significant setback, falling 7–38 to the speed of New Zealand. Despite these early defeats, they built momentum, going on to defeat Brazil to progress to the Cup Quarter Final. In that match, France took control early, leading Japan 12–0 before halftime, though the Sakura Fifteen managed two tries in the second period. Their quarter-final journey ended 12–22 against an in-form French side. The final match saw Japan suffer yet another slow start, heading into the second half with a 10-point deficit of 7–17 against the USA, an outcome that proved too difficult to reverse.

Talking Point

Japan’s struggles with immediate impact were evident in the elimination stages, particularly at the quarter-final and fifth-place playoff stages, where the team found themselves trailing significantly through the first half.

Stats

Japan defeated Fiji 12–5.
Japan lost to New Zealand 7–38.
Japan defeated Brazil 34–7.
Japan lost to France 12–22.
Japan lost to USA 7–17.

Other Results & News

For the Women’s Six Nations, Meg Jones was highlighted for her all-round performance, scoring three tries while also serving as England’s skipper. Meanwhile, Aoife Wafer’s campaign was marked by five tries scored and setting a record for metres gained by any forward in the competition. England sealed a Grand Slam victory over France in Bordeaux.

The inaugural Nations Championship will kick off in Christchurch, New Zealand, on Saturday July 4, with an opening fixture set between New Zealand and France.

The All Blacks' return to South Africa will be a logistical spectacle, with SA Rugby GM of operations Yusuf Jackson noting that the scale and planning of the tour are “as close to a World Cup as you’re going to get in terms of scale and logistics.”

Quote of the Day

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“This is as close to a World Cup as you’re going to get in terms of scale and logistics,” according to Yusuf Jackson.

Next Up

Next FixtureThe Nations Championship kicks off on July 4 in Christchurch, New Zealand.

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