Japan Rugby has confirmed the name of its Super Rugby team for the 2016 season.
The new Japanese rugby team to play in the 2016 Super Rugby competition will be known as the Sunwolves. Photo: SANZAR
The Sunwolves has been unveiled as the official name for the only Asian team in the competition.
The name is a hybrid comprising the blazing icon of the 'Land of the Rising Sun' and a wolf which represents a pack hunting mentality and a dedicated team ethos of protecting one another.
The logo depicts the breaking of a new dawn for Japanese rugby and a fearsome representation of the team's desired playing style as they seek to utilise speed, unity and a fearless spirit to face their challenges.
SANZAR interim chief executive Brendan Morris welcomed the Sunwolves to Super Rugby.
"It gives us great pleasure to welcome the Sunwolves to Super Rugby as they prepare to join our expanded competition alongside the Kings from South Africa and an Argentinean team that will be revealed shortly.
"It's an exciting time for the sport and also for fans throughout Japan who can start getting behind the brand, identity and ethos of their Super Rugby team. The JRSA did a tremendous job engaging the fans and we look forward to watching the nation get behind this team as it continues to take shape in the coming months."
The Sunwolves open their inaugural Super Rugby campaign with a clash against the Lions in Tokyo and play their first four matches at home.
