Following his observation of his second Japan Rugby League One match over the weekend, New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson shared his positive assessment of the All Blacks players currently based in Japan.

Attending the match at Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Ground, the 49-year-old ex-All Black witnessed a Brave Lupus Tokyo victory over Sagamihara Dynaboars with key 2023 World Cup players Shannon Frizell and Richie Mo'unga, as they secured a 41-19 win.

Throughout his extensive week-long trip, focused on monitoring New Zealand players participating in League One, he diligently observed the Kobe Steelers, led by All Blacks flanker Ardie Savea, as they faced a challenging match against the league leaders, the Saitama Wild Knights. This particular encounter unfolded at the Kobe Universiade Memorial Stadium on Saturday, providing valuable insights into the performance and progress of these notable players within the league.

Sam Cane of Tokyo Sungoliath and Beauden Barrett of Toyota Verblitz are among the players who have completed their season-long "sabbatical" in Japan and are now eligible to resume national duty. However, Richie Mo'unga, contracted with Brave Lupus for multiple years, is not available for selection.

Robertson, who assumed the role of head coach for New Zealand at the beginning of the year following Ian Foster's tenure, remarked. "Our players are in great physical condition, we're really pleased”

"We think that they're well looked after, they're well coached (and) they're in a situation where they come back to New Zealand in good condition."

"I think the quality on and off the field is definitely building," he said.

During the trip, Robertson expressed his admiration for the caliber of Japanese rugby, noting that it evoked fond memories of his tenure playing for Ricoh Black Rams, presently recognized as Black Rams Tokyo.

"Our current eligibility rules stand and there's been no change," he said.

"He (Mo'unga) is playing good rugby, isn't he? Exceptional, he's probably the form player (in League One)."

Robertson emphasized that beyond the visible presence of New Zealand players and coaches in Japanese rugby, there's a significant influence from Kiwis contributing expertise in various areas like tactics, medical support, and strength and conditioning to League One clubs.

"There are a lot of familiar faces who have come through the system in New Zealand, so it's good to see them having a good time in Japan," he said.

In the packed 2024 calendar for the All Blacks, a notable fixture awaits on October 26 in Yokohama against Japan. Despite looming matches against heavyweight contenders like England, Ireland, and France, Robertson underscores the importance of not underestimating the Brave Blossoms.

"We know the quality of Japan Rugby," he said. "On the day a lot can happen, so you have to be ready for that match -- the speed, the quality of skills, the variation and the innovation of the match, and the passion of the crowd."

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