League: Six Nations Sport: Rugby Country: Global Category: Coaching

Japan and Australia rugby teams meet in first Test of bilateral series

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 8, 2026, 9:03 AM

Last updated Aug 8, 2026

Japan and Australia rugby teams meet in first Test of bilateral series

Summary

Japan and Australia compete in the first Test of a two-match bilateral series at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Higashiōsaka. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:05 PM local time. This match marks the beginning of a new era for the Wallabies under head coach Les Kiss, succeeding Joe Schmidt. Both teams are looking to set a strong tone for the series.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

Key Details

•Match takes place at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Higashiōsaka.
•Kick-off scheduled for 7:05 PM local time.
•Les Kiss begins his tenure as head coach of the Wallabies.
•The series comprises two Tests between Japan and Australia.

Latest Updates

9:03 AMThe Guardian Sport — Japan v Australia: rugby union international – live

What they're saying

"
Updates as Wallabies begin new era under Les Kiss Kick-off: 7pm local in Osaka/8pm AEST | Email us Hello everybody and welcome to live coverage of Japan v Australia in the first of a two-Test bilateral series. Kick-off at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Higashiōsaka is scheduled for 7.05pm local time (8.05pm AEST). The dawning of a new era for Australian rugby begins, appropriately enough, in the land of the rising sun. Les Kiss is now the man responsible for the fortunes of the Wallabies, taking the head coaching reins from Joe Schmidt. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Jonathan Howcroft

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