Martin Johnson has added his considerable weight and reputation to the growing number of stars from the rugby world backing the Japan Rugby Football Union's bid to host the 2011 World Cup.
Speaking at his own testimonial dinner in Tokyo on Friday, the former England and British and Irish Lionscaptain said that the game would only benefit as a result of a World Cup being held in Japan.
"Rugby needs to expand and broaden its horizons," he said. "And giving Japan the World Cup would take the game to a new level.
"Japan showed what a good job it did with the football World Cup in 2002, which is the second biggest sporting event in the world - and I am sure they will do the same with the rugby World Cup, which is the third biggest event.
"It would be a great tournament for the fans with fantastic venues and I am sure they (the JRFU) would do a fantastic job"
Johnson went to say that hosting the tournament in Japan would ensure that no team would have an advantage, as has happened in previous World Cups.
"Most home sides have got to the final in the past, so it will even out the playing field. The climate will also make it more interesting.
"I have found Japan to be a fantastic and amazing place and am sure the thousands of fans who come to Japan will find it to be the same."
Fellow Leicester Tigers Matt Poole and Peter Wheeler - who are the main organisers behind Johnson's seemingly non-stop schedule of commitments during his testimonial year - shared Johnson's view.
"I endorse what Martin said about Japan and can't think of a better place to host the World Cup," said Wheeler, who was capped 41 times by England.
Johnson's views come on the heels of similar comments from the likes of Wallabies coach Eddie Jones; World Cup winners Matt Cockbain and Toutai Kefu; and former All Black John Kirwan.
All of whom have said that Japan's bid would help in the global expansion of the game.
