Get ready for a thrilling rugby encounter as Canada prepares to battle Japan in the Pacific Nations Cup! The Canadian squad has announced its 28-man traveling team for the highly anticipated match in Sendai this Saturday. Following a convincing victory against the USA in Calgary, Canada is now on the cusp of securing a spot in the World Cup. A single bonus point against the Brave Blossoms is all they need to officially book their ticket to Australia 2027.
However, the road to victory won't be easy. France-based forwards Evan Olmstead and Tyler Ardron will be absent, along with flyhalf Cooper Coats. Midfielder Talon McMullin is also not included in the traveling group.
On a brighter note, the squad welcomes fresh talent in the form of uncapped hooker Austin Creighton, second row Callum Botchar, scrumhalf Brock Gallagher, and flyhalf/fullback Shane O’Leary. Botchar and Gallagher previously showcased their skills against Belgium in Edmonton during the July test window.
The stakes are high. If Canada fails to secure a victory or a bonus point in Sendai, the USA would need a four-try bonus point victory over Japan and a superior points differential to snatch Canada’s place in the PNC Semi Final. Last year, the Maple Leafs suffered a 55-28 defeat against Japan in Vancouver, although they did manage to score four tries.
Here's a look at the Canadian squad:
- Cali Martinez (Old Glory DC)
- Emerson Prior (Utah Warriors)
- Austin Creighton (Pacific Pride)
- Dewald Kotze (Seattle Seawolves)
- Jesse Mackail (Seattle Seawolves)
- Cole Keith (New England Free Jacks)
- Kyle Steeves (New England Free Jacks)
- Conor Young (RFC Los Angeles)
- Callum Botchar (NOLA Gold)
- Izzak Kelly (Capilano)
- Piers von Dadelszen (New England Free Jacks)
- Mason Flesch (Chicago Hounds)
- Matt Heaton (RFC Los Angeles)
- Matthew Oworu (Chicago Hounds)
- Sion Parry (Ebbw Vale, UK)
- Lucas Rumball (capt., Chicago Hounds)
- Brock Gallagher (Seattle Se
Will Canada secure their World Cup qualification, or will the USA seize the opportunity? Tune in to find out!