top of page


Japan internationals prepare legal action over new League One rules
A large group of overseas-born players who have Japanese citizenship are exploring legal avenues over controversial new player classification rules which come into effect in League One next season. RugbyJP.com understands that around 30 League One players, a host of whom have played for Japan after qualifying on residency grounds, have put their name to a complaint which will be lodged to the Japan Fair Trade Commission. Additionally, the group has submitted a petition for a

Mark Pickering
Apr 202 min read


Green Rockets’ ex-Japan international arrested on suspicion of assault
Division two side NEC Green Rockets has announced that their ex-Japan international Amanaki Lotoahea was arrested on suspicion of assault on Sunday March 8. Tonga-born centre Lotoahea, 35, who has eight caps for Japan after qualifying on residency grounds, has scored two tries in four appearances this season. The former Black Rams Tokyo back was arrested after reportedly assaulting a restaurant employee on the street in Shibuya while being intoxicated. Rotoahea was believed t

Mark Pickering
Mar 102 min read


RugbyJP picks a veteran JRLO XV
Could this team of veteran players be competitive in Japan Rugby League One? What do you think of the team? Let us know on social media...

Mark Pickering
Jan 8, 20251 min read
bottom of page
