Now that the 2022 international season has concluded, we delve into the state of affairs in each of the nations. Finally, we review Fiji, Georgia and Japan.
TOULOUSE, France (AP) France completed a calendar year of test rugby with a first perfect winning record after topping a competitive Japan 35-17 on Sunday. France's 10th win in 10 tests and third defeat of Japan this year never looked in doubt after the opening minutes.
Tokyo-based rugby journalist Mark Pickering gives a first-hand account of the All Blacks match against the Brave Blossoms in Tokyo and what it meant to the people of Japan.
Japan coach Jamie Joseph said he was looking forward to seeing his side tackle the challenge of playing England in the "cauldron" of Twickenham on Saturday.