Jones facing Italy tester
Preview
EDDIE Jones will be hoping his horror start in charge of Japan will come to an end today when they take on Italy in Hokkaido.
Japan have suffered back-to-back home losses to England and Georgia in Jones' first two games in charge and will see this morning as an opportunity at redemption against an improving Italian outfit.
With recently departed Jamie Joseph having enjoyed a lengthy and successful spell as Brave Blossoms boss, the side's latest results may simply be growing pains as the players seek to adapt to Jones' playing vision.
In contrast, Italy played very well in their 36-14 away win over Tonga after a surprising loss in Samoa that saw Gonzalo Quesada's men surrender a 25-15 second-half lead to ultimately succumb 25-33 in Apia.
Jones has made five changes to his starting XV. The five coming into the side includes Eishin Kuwano who will earn his first cap in the second row alongside the impressive Warner Dearns. He is joined by backrower Amanaki Saumaki who comes into the team as the starting blindside after having played against England in Japan's first test of the year and in both non-capped matches against the Māori All Blacks.
The other changes in the forwards see Japan's talismanic captain Michael Leitch move from the second row to the openside flank, with Faulua Makisi shifting from the blindside to No.8.
In the backs, veteran flyhalf Rikiya Matsuda comes into the side to add 38 caps worth of experience to the Brave Blossoms backline.
Italy star winger Monty Ioane, who scored in both matches on their summer tour, is unavailable due to a muscle strain.
