There is a significant change brewing in Japan Rugby League One (JRLO) that will have significant short- and long-term impacts on the player market in the Pacific region, as well as raising hard questions about identity. In proposals that have created unease and confusion among foreign players, JRLO is proposing that from 2026 onwards at least eight players on the field at any one time have Japanese blood. The proposed rules – described to this masthead as “huge” by industry sources and almost certain to cause “collateral damage” – are so strict that even foreign-born players who have assimilated into Japanese life, have Japanese passports and have played up to 30 times for Japan won’t be considered “Japanese”. Only foreigners who have played more than 30 Tests for Japan will be exempt from the new rules: and as an example, even established Test players such as the Australia-raised Dylan Riley aren’t currently at that level.