Dynamic Japanese international Akihito Yamada has signed for Australian Super 15 team Western Force, the club said on Thursday.
The try-scoring winger has been recruited for the 2015 season on a one-year contract. He currently plays for the Panasonic Wild Knights, who lead Japan's Top League.
"I'm really excited to have this great opportunity to play in Super Rugby as a member of the Western Force team," he said.
Yamada, 29, has played 10 Tests for the Brave Blossoms since making his debut for the national side against Russia last year, crossing for eight tries in all.
Force coach Michael Foley said he was an exciting addition to his squad.
"Aki is an attacking wing/fullback who has demonstrated an ability to find the tryline," he said.
"While he's played international rugby for Japan, he's keen to keep improving and has expressed a desire to challenge for a place in the match squad."
The Perth-based Western Force had an improved season this year, finishing eighth, two points outside the play-offs.
They kick off their 2015 campaign against the NSW Waratahs in Sydney on February 15.
Source: AFP
