Japanese players (from left) Kei Kobayashi, Takamasa Havada, Kouya Hirao, Hiroaki Shitahama and Riku Kitahara are all turning out for the Southern club this year. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSHThe Southern Magpies — perhaps the Southern Sunwolves. The South Dunedin club has five Japanese players lining up this year. Kitahara said New Zealand rugby was completely different to rugby in Japan which revolved around companies, schools and universities. Southern is set to take on Harbour in the premier grade at Watson Park tomorrow.

Source: Otago Daily Times July 02, 2020 16:52 UTC