Japan coach Eddie Jones has named a strong, hard-running South African to shore up his youthful backline as the Brave Blossoms get ready to face Wales.

Japan coach Eddie Jones has named a strong, hard-running South African to shore up his youthful backline as the Brave Blossoms get ready to face Wales.

Riley has grown into a key figure for Japan since making his debut in 2021 and has become a regular under Jones’ mentorship. The 27-year-old, born in Durban and schooled at The Southport School in Australia, will partner Shogo Nakano in the midfield.

Japan will fancy their chances against a Welsh team in crisis. Wales arrive in Japan off the back of a record 17 straight losses, which is the worst run for a Tier One nation in the professional era.