Jone Naikabula, a winger from Nadroga, scored an early try for Japan in their international test match against the All Blacks in Yokohama. Naikabula broke through the defense to give Japan a bright start. However, the New Zealand team, coached by Scott Robertson, quickly responded by racking up seven tries in the first half and three more in the second half, ultimately winning the match 64-19.
Key performances came from lock and captain Patrick Tuipulotu, number eight Wallace Sititi, and winger Mark Tele’a, while fly-half Damian McKenzie successfully converted seven tries. Tele’a and Tuipulotu both scored shortly after Naikabula’s try.
Japan’s Faulua Makisi managed to narrow the gap, but New Zealand maintained control as Billy Proctor, Sam Cane, and Samipeni Finau added to the score within eight minutes. Pasilio Tosi and Tamaiti Williams also scored before halftime.
Cam Roigard, returning to the New Zealand team after an injury, scored after the break, and Japan’s Opeti Helu made a notable debut with a try of his own. All Blacks debutant Ruben Love made an impressive impact towards the end, scoring twice in the final two minutes.
Looking ahead, the All Blacks will play against England at Twickenham on November 2, followed by matches against Ireland, France, and Italy.
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