■By DANIEL CLARKE

South Africa ..31
Japan ............... 24
HOSTS South Africa got their campaign off to a strong start by beating a competitive Japan.
Japan took the lead through Noriko Taniguchi and had a second score in the first quarter through Ayasa Otsuka, with Aseza Hele’s try for the hosts in between.
Tries from Chumisa Qawe and Sanelisiwe Charlie put South Africa 17-12 up at half-time.
Ayanda Malinga put them further ahead. Japan hit back with Seina Saito’s try double but Vainah Ubisi’s try sealed the win.
Italy ................... 0
Scotla...