Rugby-Fullback Lemeki to make rare start for Japan against Samoa

FILE PHOTO: Rugby Union - Rugby World Cup 2023 - Pool D - England v Japan - Allianz Riviera, Nice, France - September 17, 2023 Japan's Lomano Lemeki in action REUTERS/Stephanie Lecocq/File Photo

(Reuters) -Lomano Lemeki will make a first start for Japan in almost two years as one of two changes to their side for the Rugby World Cup Pool D fixture against Samoa in Toulouse on Thursday, a fixture both need to win in their bid for a quarter-final place.

Lemeki comes in at fullback for Semisi Masirewa, who was forced off early in the 34-12 loss to England in their previous game.