Meanwhile, Japan coach John Kirwan has named his team to face Wales.

BBC: Wales suffer flanker Thomas blow

The Italians, unsurprisingly under the combative John Kirwan, continue to improve inexorably, and gave favourites Ireland a real fright, who looked anything but convincing, especially in the pack.

BBC: Tim

But Japan coach John Kirwan has vowed to follow a brand of rugby that suits his squad and to bring out the "Samurai Spirit", and has targeted at least two wins from the tournament.

BBC: Eastern Promise: Japanese rugby