Japanese rugby caps record-holder Hitoshi Ono’s extraordinary durability is down to, among other things, drinking 10 beers a night, according to coach Eddie Jones.
Second-row forward Ono, who is set to win his 96th cap against Samoa in a crucial World Cup Pool B match on Saturday, will also become the oldest player to represent Japan aged 37.
“It’s going to be his 96th cap which is an unbelievable achievement,” said Jones.
“And he’s going to achieve his 96th cap as the oldest guy to play for Japan.
“He takes that record off the previous Toshiba half-back (Wataru) Murata. There must be something in those microchips at Toshiba.”
Jones, who through his mother is half-Japanese, said Ono, who made his debut against Korea back in 2004, was an example to all present and wannabe rugby players.
“He’s an incredibly tough player and that is why he’s picked,” said Jones.
“If you want a strong child make sure they get brought up on a dairy farm, deliver the papers every morning, drink 10 beers a night.
“You should do a documentary on longevity – milk, newspapers and beer.”
Ono played in Japan’s epic 34-32 victory over two-time world champions South Africa. Jones has set an ambitious target for the 2019 World Cup hosts of reaching the quarter finals.