The Breakdown | Winds of change blowing as Japan plan to tackle rugby’s powerhouses

With Ardie Savea on board, will the money on offer for a shorter season in Asia attract more elite European-based players?Check out the following list of names in action over the weekend: Ardie Savea, Beauden Barrett, Sam Cane, Richie Mo’unga, Aaron Smith, Brodie Retallick, Shannon Frizell, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Faf de Klerk, Damian de Allende, Cheslin Kolbe and Franco Mostert. A few short weeks ago they were all starting in the Rugby World Cup final in Paris. But where are they now? Here’s a clue: none were involved in the opening round of the Champions Cup.On that same theme, here’s a supplementary quiz question. Which of the following rugby matches attracted a bigger crowd over the weekend? Was it: a) Racing 92 v Harlequins; b) La Rochelle v Leinster; c) Bulls v Saracens; or d) Kubota Spears Funabashi Tokyo Bay v Tokyo Sungoliath? Let’s just say Europe’s leading clubs and their flagship cross-border tournament are by no means the only show in town these days. Continue reading...