Springbok Strauss to lead World XV
NEWS: Former Springboks and Bulls hooker Adriaan Strauss will captain the World XV for their match against Japan on October 26 at Osaka’s Hanazono Rugby Stadium.
According to the Japanese newspaper Kyodo news, the team will be coach by Robbie Deans and Scott Robertson.
The star-studded team will feature Australians Ben Alexander and Sam Carter as well as two-time Rugby World Cup winner Ma’a Nonu of New Zealand.
The game to mark the renewal of the iconic Hanazono ground.
Last year, Deans and Robertson also coached Barbarians side that gave the All Blacks a run for their money before falling 22-31.
Strauss, who has experience of playing under Deans as part of the World XV that beat Japan 47-27 in Fukuoka last year, will be joined by fellow South Africans Willie Britz, Harold Vorster, Corne Fourie, Hencus van Wyk, Lionel Cronje and Jason Jenkins, all of whom apart from Fourie are currently playing in Japan’s Top League.
Further members will be added to the World XV squad over the coming days with the final line-up set to be confirmed on Oct. 21, dependent on club and provincial commitments.
Source: Kyodonews.net
