New Zealand U20s opened their Junior World Championship campaign with a 38-21 win over Japan after lightning forced the Pool B match in Kutaisi to be abandoned.
Haki Wiseman’s side were awarded the result after referee Luke Rogan removed both teams from the AIA Arena pitch in the 68th minute amid torrential rain, thunderstorms and nearby lightning. World Rugby confirmed the match would not restart and that the score would stand under tournament rules.
World Rugby statement: New Zealand v Japan World Rugby Junior World Championship – Match abandoned.
— World Rugby Media (@worldrugbymedia) June 27, 2026
Lightning Call Turns Pool B Opener
The stoppage came after a sharply contested first hour. Japan, back at this level for the first time since 2023, had made the match awkward by striking through Kise Sin, Shinnosuke Uchida and Sota Miura before half-time.
New Zealand’s response was ultimately decisive. Dane Johnston, Bradley Tocker and Ollie Guerin crossed in the first half, before Logan Williams, Caleb Woodley and Mika Muliaina pushed the 2025 runners-up clear after the interval.
The result leaves New Zealand with a winning start before their next Pool B assignment against Scotland on July 2. Japan, beaten but far from outclassed, now turn toward Italy with evidence that their return to the Junior World Championship has genuine competitive substance.
