TOKYO: Japan’s rugby gamers said they were “sad” and “shocked” with the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe but had remained “focused” intended for Saturday’s (Jul 9) second Test towards France.
Japan lost 20-15 to the Six Countries champions on an emotional day at Tokyo’s Nationwide Stadium, one day following the country’s longest-serving leading minister was chance dead on the strategy trail.
The 57, 000-plus crowd observed a minute’s silence for a guy who had been a visible and enthusiastic supporter from the Japan team once the country hosted the particular Rugby World Glass in 2019.
Michael Leitch, who captained Japan during their historic run to the quarter-finals three years ago, said Abe was “a great man” who “supported rugby”.
“For your pet to be murdered in this horrible way stunned the team, ” said Leitch, who had been born in Brand new Zealand but relocated to Japan at the age of fifteen.
“Everybody has been talking about it and am feel really depressing for his family members.
“I hoped today we could win to honour his name, but it didn’t very happen. ”
Abe, Japan’s best-known politician, was providing a campaign talk in the western area of Nara on Friday morning when a gunman opened fire at close range.
He was taken to hospital by helicopter but was pronounced dead later within the day.