While the All Blacks will be eager to showcase their skills at this year's World Cup in Japan, a team of under-12s from Christchurch will get the first crack at showcasing Kiwi rugby in the land of the rising sun.
With the World Rugby Festival kicking off in Japan in April, Christchurch Football Club will represent New Zealand on the world stage, with the kids unable to contain their enthusiasm.
"I'm very excited," halfback Reuben told 1 NEWS.
"Not many people get the chance to go to Japan and play their favourite sport."
With less than 13 weeks before the tournament kicks off, coach Tere Ngariki has roped in some superstar help, drafting in All Black Matt Todd to help get the side ready.
"Just enjoy it up there, not only to experience Japan," Todd began. "But you are playing against kids from all over the world, footy's a bit different in each part of it."
The boys will take the field at Yokohama Stadium, the venue of this year's World Cup final, with coach Ngariki speaking of what it means for his side.
"It'll be emotional and daunting for these boys," Ngariki told 1 NEWS.
"It's a lifetime dream for these boys and also the coaches.
"But the boys are ready, ready to go."
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