Stephen Varney, the Italian rugby scrum-half, is considering a future move to Japan's Rugby League One, a competition that is rapidly gaining traction and attracting some of the sport's biggest names. Varney, who spoke exclusively to RugbyJP.com, expressed his admiration for the Japanese rugby scene, particularly the League One's exciting brand of play and the passionate support of its fans.
Varney, a fluent Welsh speaker with Italian heritage, played a full 60 minutes in Italy's recent Nations Championship loss to Japan, a game that showcased the host nation's speed, accuracy, and physicality. Despite Italy's below-par performance, Varney valued the experience of playing in front of a sold-out crowd of 21,320, praising the Japanese fans' energy and respect for the sport.
The 25-year-old, who has won 38 caps since his Test debut in 2020, has a new contract with Exeter Chiefs, a team he helped reach the PREM Rugby runner-up position in June. However, Varney's comments about Japan's rugby league and its potential to tempt him with an offer to play there have sparked interest and speculation.
Varney's perspective on Japan's rugby league is particularly intriguing. He highlights the league's growing popularity, the excitement of its gameplay, and the presence of star players like Aaron Smith and Faf de Klerk. This combination of factors makes Japan an attractive destination for top rugby talent.
The Italian rugby team, currently on a losing streak against New Zealand, faces a challenging assignment against the All Blacks in Wellington. Varney emphasizes the importance of recovery and learning from the Japan game to prepare for this crucial match. His comments about the need for rest and review demonstrate his maturity and strategic thinking, qualities that make him a valuable asset to any team.
In conclusion, Varney's openness to playing in Japan's Rugby League One is a fascinating development in the sport. It showcases the league's growing appeal and the potential for international rugby talent to be drawn to its exciting brand of play. As Varney continues to excel with Exeter, his future in Japan remains a captivating prospect, one that could significantly impact the league's trajectory and the global rugby landscape.
