**Wales Set for Crucial Rugby Clash with Japan: How to Watch the Test Series Live and Free**
Wales’ national rugby team is set to face a challenging test this Saturday as they travel to Kitakyushu to take on Japan in the first of a two-match series, an encounter that promises high stakes for both sides. With the nation dogged by a record-breaking 17-Test losing streak and consecutive Six Nations wooden spoons, the Welsh are under mounting pressure to deliver a much-needed victory.
Saturday’s match holds significance not only as the start of the summer Test series but also as a potential turning point for a Welsh team striving to rediscover its winning form. The squad, led temporarily by caretaker head coach Matt Sherratt following Warren Gatland’s departure during the recent Six Nations, has endured a difficult period capped by a heavy 68-14 defeat to England in Cardiff.
In response, Sherratt and his coaching team have been putting Dewi Lake and his teammates through their paces, determined to prepare them for both the intensity of their opponents and the oppressive summer heat of southwestern Japan. In anticipation of the challenging climate, organisers have scheduled an extended 20-minute half-time break for the opening Test at the Mikuni World Stadium.
The match kicks off at 6am UK time (2pm local) on Saturday, 5th July, providing an early-morning viewing opportunity for fans at home. Viewers can watch all the action live and free on BBC One Wales, with the follow-up Test to be shown on S4C. Both matches will also be available to stream online via BBC iPlayer, ensuring that supporters can keep up with the pivotal series regardless of their location.
Japan and Wales sit side by side in the World Rugby rankings, making this series particularly important for both nations as they look to test themselves outside their regular competitions. The outcome could have lasting implications on future rankings and momentum for both squads as they continue preparations for upcoming international fixtures.
Japanese head coach Eddie Jones has made clear that the conditions in Kitakyushu will play a major role in the outcome. “We know the weather will be tough for both teams, but we’ve prepared thoroughly in the heat and humidity,” Jones commented, describing training sessions held in sweltering 32C temperatures with deliberate efforts to simulate slippery playing conditions. “The team that best adapts to these situations will likely come out on top.”
Matt Sherratt echoed similar sentiments regarding preparation, stating, “We’ve focused on giving everyone a fair chance and emphasised that this will be a collective effort. Achieving a consistent performance for the full 80 minutes, especially under these conditions, is absolutely vital.” Sherratt also highlighted the warm welcome received by the Welsh delegation in Kitakyushu, noting a “real sense of camaraderie” between the local fans and visiting players ahead of the competition.
Team line-ups have also been confirmed, with Japan starting Takuro Matsunaga at full-back and Michael Leitch captaining the side from the back row. Notable threats include Dylan Riley and Kippei Ishida among the backs, with experienced names like Mamoru Harada and Warner Deans in the pack. The Welsh squad sees Blair Murray at full-back, Tom Rogers and Josh Adams on the wings, with Dewi Lake, the captain, packing down at hooker. The bench is set to provide further impact, with the likes of Tommy Reffell and Joe Roberts ready to inject fresh energy if needed.
Saturday’s fixture represents far more than a routine summer Test. For Wales, it is a much-anticipated opportunity to break free from a prolonged slump and re-establish themselves on the global rugby stage. For Japan, it offers a chance to test their mettle against a traditional Tier 1 nation at a time when both countries are keen for momentum and confidence.
With fans able to tune in at no cost thanks to BBC and S4C’s coverage, interest is expected to be high for this mid-morning showdown. As both teams prepare to battle not only each other but also the oppressive heat, rugby supporters across the UK and beyond will be watching closely to see if Wales can finally end their drought or if Japan will cement their growing status in world rugby.
For the latest updates and coverage, fans are encouraged to follow the teams’ official channels and keep an eye on Wales Online for match reports, post-match analysis and further developments from the Far East tour.