The Australian national rugby team, the Wallabies, are scheduled to play a test match against Japan at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka, Japan. The fixture marks the first of two scheduled tests between the sides.
The match serves as the coaching debut for Les Kiss, who is taking charge of the Wallabies for his first match as coach. He faces Eddie Jones, who is currently coaching Japan following two previous stints coaching the Wallabies. Jones is aiming to lead Japan to their first win over Australia.
The Wallabies are seeking to achieve back-to-back test wins for the first time in a year. The team last achieved two consecutive wins in August last year after defeating the British & Irish Lions and the Springboks. Prior to a victory against Italy in July, which ended a six-match losing streak, the team had not secured consecutive wins.
Wallabies captain Harry Wilson spoke to reporters in Osaka on Friday regarding the team's recent form. Wilson said the win against Italy 'definitely gave the team a little bit more confidence.'
It's always nice to get a win after a fair few losses on the trot.
Wilson also noted the challenges posed by the Japanese side, stating, 'We know, I guess, how fast tempo Japan plays and some of their counterattack is unbelievable.'
The matchday 23 for Japan includes four members who were raised in Australia: lock Harry Hockings, centre Dylan Riley, and loose forwards Jack Cornelsen and Ben Gunter.
High temperatures and stifling humidity are forecast for the match in Osaka.
