Welsh rugby slumped to new depths after a lacklustre second-half display saw Wales lose an 18th consecutive match, this time in the form of a 24-19 defeat at the hands of a makeshift Japan side.

Many had hoped this tour of Japan would steady the ship. Wales looked on track to secure their first win since the 2023 World Cup, but Japan had other ideas. What began as a scrappy affair ended in heartbreak, as Eddie Jones’ side rallied to crush Welsh dreams.

As Welsh fans rose at the crack of dawn to watch their team take to the pitch, there was genuine optimism that the record-breaking losing streak would come to an end. But the game was rocked by an early blow: Ben Carter was injured in the first minute. Once play resumed, nerves were evident on both sides.

Wales struck first with a try from Ben Thomas after sustained pressure. The hosts responded with an eye-catching try from Takuro Matsunaga, showcasing Japan’s attacking flair. Not long after came a penalty try for Wales. As the 21st minute ticked over, the Welsh backline moved the ball crisply from the halfway line to the try line. Tom Rogers went over for what would be Wales’ final score.

Dewi Lake led his side out for the second 40 minutes with momentum on their side. Wales seemed in control heading into the final quarter. But as the heat rose, so did Japan. Under the blazing sun, Wales wavered, and Japan came to life. The tempo and confidence of the home side surged.

Ichigo Nakakusu and Halatoa Vailea crossed the whitewash to put Japan ahead. As the clock went red, Japan calmly went through the phases and sealed a memorable win.

Japan’s victory marked an 18th consecutive defeat for Wales in a game that had seemed the perfect platform for success. Instead, Wales now find themselves at an all-time low world ranking of 14th, sitting below both Japan and Samoa.

To grasp the contrast, consider this: the last time Wales played in Kyushu, they stood proudly as the world’s number two. Now, ranked 14th, Wales are in the third band for the 2027 World Cup draw, making a tough group highly likely. Time is running out, with only five tests remaining before the pools are decided.

Next up is a rematch with Japan, and it won’t be any easier. After that, it’s a gauntlet of giants: South Africa, New Zealand, Argentina, and another clash with Japan.

Next week, Matt Sherratt and Wales will head to Kobe with tremendous pressure on their shoulders. Welsh rugby is in desperate need of positive news heading into the new season. At set-piece time, they must improve, both lineouts and scrums were shaky.

In terms of changes, one possibility is the inclusion of Ospreys’ half-backs Reuben Morgan-Williams and Dan Edwards. Their partnership has been lethal at club level.

Wales should take some positives from the first half. The team produced fluid attacking phases that led to well-taken tries. All eyes will be on Sherratt to see what changes he makes ahead of next week’s clash.

Welsh rugby needs a spark. Many believed this tour would be it. In a bleak landscape, Wales must find a way to win, because right now, even a flicker of light could reignite a nation.

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