A host on the ball

When you’re the pre-eminent force in world rugby (sorry, Ireland, but it’s true), it’s understandable that you can become lazy, complacent, maybe even arrogant. There were more than a few grumbles in 2009 when it was announced that rugby’s world leaders would look a little outside the tent, awarding the hosting rights to their premier global event to one of the sport’s rising suns. In New Zealand and elsewhere there was suspicion about Japan’s financial clout and the sport’s less than altruistic motives. Others were perhaps not quite ready to see its prize competition showcased beyond its traditional powerhouses.

But early indications are that such fears were unfounded and the tournament is in good hands. Organisers are not far from hanging the ‘‘sold out’’ sign above the door for every game, even those featuring Namibia taking on Canada and Fiji versus Uruguay.

And the Japanese appear to have adopted the event and the teams within it in a heartwarming way.

There is obvious affection for the All Blacks, with plenty of attention from fans and media. Also, Wales will be thinking they are back in the valleys after 15,000 people turned up to watch the boyos train at Kitakyushu Stadium. Fans queued for a kilometre to get in and even sang the Welsh national anthem.

Contrast this with now regular images of near-empty stadiums for our own premier provincial competition and less than stellar audiences for its Super big brother.

The Japanese may have lots to learn about playing rugby but it appears they are set to teach us a few lessons about its value to a community and how to show your support.