New-look Ireland out to make their own statement against Japan

Hugo Keenan is one of 28 players in Andy Farrell's squad on the outside looking when Ireland lost 19-12 to the World Cup hosts in Shizuoka two years ago

Hugo Keenan. Picture: INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Revenge is in the air. Well, talk of it, at least. Japan’s arrival on Irish soil comes less than two years after their famous World Cup win against the Six Nations side in Shizuoka so the headlines are ready to be written.

That it would make for a dish served cold is one thing but there is no guarantee that a young and inexperienced Ireland side will serve up the result most expect against a Japanese side that belatedly found their feet against the British and Irish Lions last weekend.