The All Blacks are going to begin their 2019 World Cup preparations early "by playing a test in Japan late next year," according to Gregor Paul of the NEW ZEALAND HERALD. New Zealand Rugby CEO Steve Tew confirmed that the test "will go ahead next year." With the next edition of the World Cup to be hosted in Japan, the All Blacks are "keen" to try to familiarize with a country to which they have "only had limited exposure over the years." They will play Japan in a one-off test on Nov. 3 "on their way to play three more in Europe -- one of which will be against England." The venue will be confirmed next year "once more details about the World Cup have been revealed" (NZ HERALD, 5/17). REUTERS' Shinichi Saoshiro reported NZ PM Bill English said that the test would "help boost the profile of the World Cup." English said, "This will be a fantastic opportunity for promotion of the World Cup here in Japan." Japan Rugby Football Union President Tadashi Okamura added that the match was a "perfect appetiser for the first World Cup in Asia." In a statement, Okamura said, "It is a great pleasure to welcome the All Blacks back to Japan for a match less than one year out from Japan hosting Rugby World Cup 2019" (REUTERS, 5/17). KYODO reported the trip to Japan will be world No. 1 New Zealand's first since '13, when the visitors won 54-6. At the 1995 World Cup, Japan suffered a record 145-17 defeat at the hands of New Zealand (KYODO, 5/17).
