Experts help Japan

Japan has sought the off-field expertise of a handful of Australians, including former Wallabies captain and legendary first five-eighth Mark Ella, in a bid to improve its rugby World Cup finals record.

Head coach Shogo Mukai has enlisted Ella the backline and strategy coach, former Wallabies hooker Mark Bell is in charge of the forwards and Garry Wallace is strength and fitness coach.

If there is a faint trace of the Wallabies style in Japan's play, attribute that to the influence of current Australian coach Eddie Jones, who provided part of Mukai's rugby education 20 years ago.