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Canada will play test matches against Japan, Russia, and Italy during the three-week World Rugby international test window. Rugby Canada Jim Dixon announced the opponents during his cross-country ‘Town Hall’ meetings over the past week. Venues are still to be confirmed, with tentative dates targeted for the three Saturdays – Japan in Vancouver on June 11, Russia in Calgary on June 18, and Italy in Toronto on June 26, the latter virtually certain to take place at BMO Field.
Japan are currently at their highest all-time world ranking in 10th spot after an historic victory over South Africa in the World Cup. The two sides have met on 24 previous occasions, with Canada winning eight and two draws. Their most recent collision was during the Pacific Nations Cup in July, where Japan came out on top by a score of 20-6 in San Jose. Canada’s last victory over the Brave Blossoms was in May of 2005.
Despite not qualifying for the World Cup, Russia remain ranked above Canada in 18th spot, though Canada have won all three of their prior meetings. The last match between the two was a 35-3 result at the neutral site of Colwyn Bay in North Wales.
Italy currently occupy the 12th spot on the world rankings, and have played Canada in eight previous test matches in 1983, losing only twice. The Azzurri have won the last six meetings, including a narrow 23-18 victory in Leeds during the World Cup. Canada’s last win over Italy came in November 2000 at Rovigo’s Stadio Battaglini.
EDIT: The date for the Italy test has been corrected to June 26, moved to accommodate a stadium conflict with Major League Soccer on the 25th.
