Wales Beat Japan to Snap Record Losing Streak

Wales ended their record 18-match losing streak with a 31-22 win over Japan in Kobe, marking their first Test victory in 644 days and leveling the two-match series at 1-1. Interim head coach Matt Sherratt led the side, which avoided setting a new record for consecutive defeats by a Tier One nation. Tries from Josh Adams, Kieran Hardy (twice), and Dan Edwards powered Wales, who held off a strong second-half comeback by Japan. The win lifts Wales back into the top 12 of the World Rugby rankings and is seen as a crucial milestone ahead of appointing a permanent head coach for the November internationals. Captain Dewi Lake and Sherratt highlighted the psychological relief and hope for a turning point for Welsh rugby. The match was played in challenging heat, testing both teams' endurance.