Fijian 2, in Japan squad

Fijians Semisi Masirewa and Jo Naikabula have forced their way into the 37-member Japanese rugby team for their upcoming Autumn Tour starting with the Wallabies on October 23.

Masirewa had been a sensation while playing for Sunwolves during their Super Rugby competition from 2018 to 2019. He also played for Western Force from 2016 to 2017. Naikabula has also represented the Japanese sevens rugby team.

Kubota Spears flanker Pieter Labuschagne will captain the side for the international fixtures. He replaces Michael Leitch, who also retained his spot in the squad. Leitch’s mother Ivamere hails from Nasukamai Village in Ra.

“Michael Leitch has been a great captain for this team,” Japan head coach Jamie Joseph said.

“There is such a heavy workload as captain and after having played in three World Cups, and the amount of rugby he has played for Japan, we want him to be in a position to focus purely on his rugby and give him a break from the responsibility of leading the team.

“Lappies captained the side in 2019 and did an awesome job. He’s a natural leader, confident in how he deals with referees, he knows the game very well and leads by the way he plays.

“The support from Ryoto Nakamura is going to be crucial. There is already great balance between these guys and the wider leadership group. Ryoto has gone from strength to strength since I’ve been coaching Japan and his leadership is very apparent at Suntory.”

Suntory Sungoliath utility back Ryoto Nakamura has been named vice captain, with the 30-year-old establishing himself as a mainstay of the side.

Australian-born trio Ben Gunter, Jack Cornelsen and Dylan Riley retain their spot in the squad after it was trimmed down from a 44-player training group last month.

They are joined by Highlanders number eight Kazuki Himeno, who was named Super Rugby Aoteatoa Rookie of the Year after a breakout season for the club.

Japan will head to Europe after their match with the Wallabies, facing off against Ireland on November 6, Portugal on November 13 and Scotland on November 20.