The All Blacks are reportedly in negotiations to play Japan on their way to their northern tour at the end of the year.
A Japanese daily sports newspaper Sankei Sports, also know by its nickname Sanspo, is reporting that an announcement is due any day. The newspaper said the All Blacks would play the Japanese national team to boost the game in the country ahead of the 2019 World Cup there.
If the report is correct, it would be a big surprise given All Blacks coach Steve Hansen's recent comments about player workload. He was also adamant last year after the loss to England at Twickenham, the All Blacks' fourth test on tour, that his team would play only three tests in Europe this year. In November they will play France in Paris, Ireland in Dublin and England in London.
It is understood that Wales wanted a match in Cardiff but were turned down. The AIG sponsorship has put the New Zealand Rugby Union in a position where they don't have to rely as much on playing tests to raise revenue.
The All Blacks have played Japan only twice, both times in World Cups. In Hamilton in 2011, the All Blacks won their pool game against the Cherry Blossoms 83-7 and in South Africa during the 1995 tournament, the All Blacks triumphed 145-17.
