Former All Blacks fly-half Richie Mo’unga led Brave Lupus Tokyo to back-to-back Japan Rugby League One titles with an 18-13 victory over Kubota Spears at the weekend, later revealing he played through the final with a fractured hand.
The 31-year-old playmaker sustained the injury in the semi-final against Kobe Steelers and was unable to train all week. Despite that, he delivered a Player of the Match performance on Sunday, scoring a try and adding eight points with the boot.
“I broke my hand against Kobe,” Mo’unga said after the match. “It’s the third time I’ve broken this hand. I knew it wasn’t impossible to play. I really wanted to be out there and be part of something special.”
Mo’unga, who previously won seven consecutive Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders, described the win as “really special,” adding, “There’s a lot of relief. I’m so proud of the team and our efforts.”
Brave Lupus head coach Todd Blackadder, who gave Mo’unga his Crusaders debut in 2016, admitted he was unsure whether the fly-half would be fit to play.
“Richie’s hand wasn’t in good shape, but it just shows how tough he is,” said Blackadder. “He turned up and played very well. He’s incredibly committed—what a player.”
The final was held at Tokyo’s National Stadium in front of 50,009 spectators. After the match, Mo’unga paid tribute to Brave Lupus captain Michael Leitch, who ended the season as the league’s top tackler.
“I’m in awe of what he does for this club and the man he is,” Mo’unga said of the 36-year-old former Japan captain. “He’s like a big brother to so many of us foreign players. He makes life easier, and I’m proud to follow his lead.”
