Asia’s Top Men’s Rugby Teams

Rugby has become increasingly popular in Asia over the last few decades. While the sport may not have the same level of popularity as football or cricket in the region, it has gained a significant following and is steadily growing in many countries. 

One of the main reasons for the sport’s growth in Asia is its inclusion in the Olympics of Rugby Sevens.  This shorter and faster version of the traditional 15-a-side game made its debut in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and contributed to the exposure and growth of the sport in Asia as Olympic Committees and Unions spent increasing amounts of funding on sevens rugby. 

Additionally, the success of some Asian teams in international competitions has also helped boost the popularity of rugby in the region. Japan, shocked the world by defeating South Africa in the 2015 Rugby World Cup, and followed this up with wins over Ireland and Scotland to qualify for the quarterfinals for the first time at RWC 2019, while heading into the final round of pool games in France RWC 2023 they have the opportunity to do so again – highlighting the growth and potential of the sport in Asia. 

The formation of professional leagues in Asia will also play a vital role in expanding the reach of rugby in the region. The Japan Top League, the region’s premier domestic competition, has attracted top players from around the world, making it a highly competitive and entertaining league to watch. 

At a national level, the Asia Rugby Championship, a competition that includes Hong Kong (defending champions) South Korea, and Malaysia and in 2024, the UAE, has provided a platform for teams to compete against each other and showcase their talent at the international level.

Photo Credit: JRFU – Brave Blossoms with fan at RWC 2023

Rugby’s Worldwide Popularity 

Rugby has evolved with its global appeal and attracted a significant following in various parts of the world, including Asia. 

One of the main contributing factors to its rise in popularity is the governing body’s aim to make it more inclusive and engaging. The current RWC in France is on course to break all previous Rugby World Cup records for attendance, broadcast audience and merch sales.

Rugby’s fast-paced, physical nature, combined with its strategic gameplay, has captured the interest of fans from around the world and the rise of tier-two nations competing at the highest level is opening doors to new nations and regions to compete at the highest level.

In Asia, countries like Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong have emerged as the strongest men’s teams on the international stage. This has helped to further increase the sport’s global appeal and attract a diverse range of fans. 

Rugby is especially popular in countries like South Africa, where it is deeply ingrained in the culture and has a rich history. The country’s national team, the Springboks, has won the Rugby World Cup three times, making it tied as the most successful team in the world and they are the defending champions in 2023.

This success has helped to build a strong following for the sport in South Africa and it has been a unifying factor in the nation’s history while also being embraced by other countries on the continent. This also leads to the popularity of rugby betting there and with the advent of crypto betting in South Africa, people can place their bet using a secure payment method, eliminating the chance of fraud or other similar shady schemes. 

In North America, rugby’s popularity has been steadily growing as well. The United States MLR professional league and the fact the county will host the Women’s (2033) and Men’s (2031) Rugby World Cups means the spotlight will shift even further on the sport in the years to come.

Photo Credit: HKRU / Ike Li / Ike Images

Current Top Men XV Teams In Asia 

Asia has produced some highly competitive XVs teams. Here are the top five teams today: 

1. Japan: Japan is currently the top men’s rugby team in Asia. Their performance in the 2019 Rugby World Cup solidified their position as a rising force in the sport. Led by head coach Jamie Joseph (who steps down after the France RWC 2023), Japan has been consistently improving and is expected to continue competing at the highest level
2. Hong Kong China: Hong Kong, China men’s rugby team has been a dominant force in the region for several years and repeat winner of the ARC since Japan no longer is involved. They continue to be the strongest contender to compete for a Rugby World Cup.
3. South Korea: The South Korean rugby team has been steadily improving and has been among the top performers in the Asia Rugby Championship but fall just short of Hong Kong China. With a potential pro league domestically and continued investment – they will continue to improve.
4. UAE: Having qualified for the ARC in 2024 by winning the Division 1 title, the rapid ascent of the team and the strong performances from their age-grade national teams, means the United Arab Emirates is one to watch.
5. Malaysia: The Malaysians have been in the top tier of Asian Rugby for a few years but have struggled to beat Hong Kong and South Korea and have now slipped below newcomers UAE.

Rugby’s Future In Asia

The future of rugby in Asia looks promising and continues to be a critical area of growth for the sport globally. With the increasing popularity of Asian teams, the region is expected to play a vital role in the development and evolution of rugby.

One of the main areas of growth for rugby in Asia is in terms of revenue and commercial opportunities, but the prospects of a 24-team format for Australia RWC means it’s likely there will be at least two Asian men’s teams at the tournament for the first time.

Another aspect that is likely to contribute to the future success of rugby in Asia is the expansion of professional leagues and tournaments.The Grand League 2024 has scan details but the newly proposed tournament is hoped to have the same impact on the region that the South American league has had, with Chile, Uruguay and Argentina all qualified for RWC 2023.

As Asian teams become more competitive and successful, it will lead to increased interest and investment in the sport which in turn will help to elevate the standard of rugby and its growth.

With the combination of growing interest, success, and potential, the future of rugby in Asia looks bright. The region’s determination for the sport, coupled with its strong emerging teams, indicate that it will continue to be a force in the world of rugby in the years to come.

This is an invited post not written by Rugby Asia 247.