Grateful Duke aims to stay on with Yamaha Jubilo

NATIONAL rugby player K. Dinesvaran is more than happy to remain with Japan Top League heavyweights Yamaha Jubilo beyond 2019.

The former Cobra star, who moved to Jubilo in 2013, said competing in Japan has taken his game to the next level.

“I am very lucky to be paid to do something I love. I have been quite happy being with the club for the past four years,” said the 29-year-old, known by his nickname Duke Krishnan in Japan.

“I have learnt a lot playing with some of the best players in the world in Japan. It definitely has allowed me to improve as a player.

“My contract runs until the end of the 2018-2019 season. After that we will see how things go, I will definitely stay on if they offer me a new contract.”

Dinesvaran added that he still has unfinished business with Jubilo, who have not won their domestic league despite coming close on numerous occasions. The club finished second in the 2016-2017 season.

Jubilo lost 49-7 to defending champions Suntory Sungoliath in the semi-finals of the 20172018 competition on Saturday, and will play Toyota Verblitz in the third place playoff on Jan 13.

“We have always had a strong squad over the years and have been capable of winning the title but on many occasions, the circumstances were against us.

“Last year we suffered a number of injuries during the key part of the season and last month, I got injured.”

Dinesvaran suffered a broken arm during Jubilo’s final group stage match against Panasonic Wild Knights on December 24 which has sidelined him for the next five months. Fadhli Ishak