Rebels, Sunwolves unveil Ganbatte Cup

The perpetual trophy will mark the historic occasion now, and for future matches between our clubs.

"We feel that this initiative will further strengthen our relationship and will provide a strong reference point of what all players from both sides should strive for in the future," Rebels General Manager Rugby Operations Baden Strephenson said.

The Rebels, the first Australian team to contract a Japanese international, have enjoyed an extremely strong relationship with Japanese Rugby over recent years with Horie, Male Sau, Keita Inagaki and Kotaro Matsushima all representing the club.

Horie became the first Japanese player to play for an Australian Super Rugby team when he joined the Rebels in 2013, where he made 18 appearances in two years and quickly became a fan favourite. In 2014, he was awarded the 'People's Choice' award, which was testament to his popularity on and off the field.

The hooker was appointed the Sunwolves captain for their maiden Super Rugby season in 2016 and scored the club's first try against the Lions in the opening round of the competition.

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