Japan skipper ‘nervous’ ahead of opener

RUSSIA may plan to spoil Japan’s big kick-off but few expect anything other than a statement of intent from the hosts as rugby’s big party kicks-off in Tokyo this morning. Scottish eyes will be watching the match with interest given it involves two of Gregor Townsend’s group rivals. Little is expected from the Russians but many are tipping the Brave Blossoms to be a surprise package. Japan coach Jamie Joseph has made seven changes to the side beaten 41-7 by South Africa earlier this month but captain Michael Leitch admitted the nerves have been evident in training. ‘I’m so nervous I’ve been making all sorts of mistakes in training — there’s so many people and so many cameras,’ he said. ‘But I’m very proud to be part of the World Cup and to be captain of Japan. ‘We have a lot of respect for Russia and we were very lucky to win last time we played them. I wouldn’t say we were favourites — I’d say we were even going into this Test match and, if we don’t play our best, we’re going to struggle.’ Leitch skippered the Japan side who pulled off the biggest upset in World Cup history when they beat South Africa 34-32 in Brighton four years ago. ‘In 2015 everyone expected us to lose — even the Japanese public,’ he added. ‘But when we beat South Africa, all eyes were on us. The next game against Scotland, 30 million people were watching. ‘Even though we lost, it inspired Japan. This time we’ve got the opportunity to inspire Japan again. ‘We’ve trained well, prepared well and this will be Japan’s best World Cup ever.’ Kick-off: 11.45am at the Ajinomoto Stadium, Tokyo. TV & Radio: LIVE on STV and BBC Radio 5 Live. Referee: Nigel Owens (Wales).