Rugby: Japan up for vital clash vs Tonga, key World Cup test

Japan head into Saturday's clash against Tonga knowing it will be more than a Pacific Nations Cup match, but a chance to test their strength and technique ahead of this autumn's Rugby World Cup.Among the three tests remaining for Japan in the run-up to the sport's showpiece event, which opens on Sept. 20, the Brave Blossoms' match against Tonga at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Higashiosaka is perhaps the most crucial.The 'Ikale Tahi, ranked No. 14 in the world, are a physical side, similar to their Pacific island neighbors, 16th-ranked Samoa, whom Japan face in their third pool A match on Oct. …READ FULL ARTICLE