Canes v Reds
-
<blockquote class="ipsBlockquote" data-author="Dice" data-cid="579934" data-time="1463299002">
<div>
<p>I didn't realize how big he was until I saw all these videos online with him on TV shows and commercials.<strong> (2)</strong> <strong>On some of these shows, it seemed like they were blowing him up to be some sort of superstar talent.</strong> The expectations of him to do well in Super Rugby must've been huge.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>(1) Is Akihito Yamada popular in Japan?</strong> He's looked quite good for the Sunwolves.</p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p>(1) Not really - unless you are already a rugby fan. (2) Goromaru caught the attention of the general public after the Boks win, mainly thanks to his ridiculous kicking pose, good looks, and good resume (Waseda University, young talent).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Players who are actually world class (e.g., I'd argue Tanaka) or at least at reasonable at Super level (e.g., Horie) are basically unknown to the wider public or least not any better known than those who are shit at super level (e.g., Yamashita), although I have seen Tanaka and Michael Leith advertising one energy drink a few times on TV. It's proper low budget shit stuff though, whereas Goromaru has some big names behind him.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sienote: You should hear the JP coms fellate themselves about the Reds when Goromau is playing, versus when he isn't. It's fucking hilarious - shit like 'turning out for the former champions etc.'</p> -
A Japanese Gavin Henson?
