Since the Rugby World Cup kicked off, Wales have earned two wins from two. It’s been plain sailing.
But their second night in Otsu was anything but.
Warren Gatland’s side are out of the tournament bubble for the next few days as they recharge their batteries following the stunning 29-25 victory over Australia on Sunday. You can read all about the controversial fallout from that match here.
They arrived in town yesterday and, this evening, they went on a boat cruise around Lake Biwa, Japan’s biggest freshwater lake.
It was hosted by the local government as a welcome to Gatland and his squad. On the boat, Alun Wyn Jones spoke in front of the assembled audience, while Japanese drums and other musical entertainment was put on for the players.
It had been a scorching day but around 5pm this afternoon, dark clouds began to roll over the lake.
At about 6pm, it became apparent that an almighty storm was drifting in, just as the whole travelling party boarded a small cruise ship along with guests.
By the time they left the harbour, just a stone’s throw away from their team hotel, lightening crackled and thunder boomed all around the lake.
First they headed straight towards the storm before turning back to the middle of the lake and then disappearing out of sight as the storm centred itself right over the lake.
The ferocious conditions continued throughout but the water appeared calm as they emerged back out of the storm and made their way back to the dock.
It is understood their trip went to plan, despite the inclement weather, though the squad’s nerves may have been tested along the way!
