Daisuke Ohata

Daisuke Ohata

Daisuke Ohata was born on November 11th, 1975

Full Name: Daisuke Ohata
Place of Birth: Tokyo, Japan
Profession: Rugby Player
Nationality: Japanese
Teams Played For: Japan National Team, Toshiba Brave Lupus
Playing Position: Wing
Career Span: 1998-2011
World Cup Appearances: 4 Tournaments

Japanese rugby legend and record-breaker, known for scoring 69 tries in 58 appearances, earning him the title of top try-scorer in rugby history.

Written by: David Williams David Williams

Daisuke Ohata: The Japanese Rugby Legend

World Record Holder and Rugby Union Icon

Daisuke Ohata is renowned for being the leading rugby union test try scorer of all time, with an impressive 69 tries in 58 tests for Japan. This remarkable feat has earned him a permanent place in the World Rugby Hall of Fame, cementing his status as a rugby legend.

Early Life and Career

Born on November 11, 1975, in Osaka, Japan, Ohata developed a passion for rugby at a young age. He attended rugby nurseries Tokai Dai Gyosei High School, where he was classmates with future Japanese baseball stars Koji Uehara and Yoshinori Tateyama. Ohata further honed his skills at Kyoto Sangyo University, laying the foundation for his successful rugby career.

Rise to International Prominence

Ohata made his international debut for Japan on November 9, 1996, scoring three tries in his first match. He quickly became a regular member of the national team, showcasing his speed and agility on the wing and at centre. Ohata's impressive performances in the World Rugby Sevens Series (then known as the IRB World Sevens Series) earned him the reputation as a speedy ace.

World Record and Controversy

On May 14, 2006, Ohata scored three tries for Japan against Georgia at Hanazono Stadium, breaking the world record for tries in rugby test matches. This achievement sparked controversy, as some critics argued that only a quarter of Ohata's tries were scored against major rugby union playing nations. Despite this, Ohata's record remains unbroken, and he has extended it to 69 tries in 58 tests.

Injury and Retirement

Ohata's career was not without its setbacks. In 2007, he ruptured his left Achilles tendon in a practice match against Portugal, ruling him out of the Rugby World Cup. He suffered a similar injury in 2008, but made a remarkable recovery to return to the national side in 2011. Ohata officially retired from professional rugby in 2011, at the age of 35.

Legacy and Honors

Ohata's induction into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2016 is a testament to his remarkable contributions to the sport. He remains an icon in Japanese rugby, inspiring future generations of players. Ohata's name is synonymous with speed, skill, and determination – a true legend of the rugby world.

Trivia and Fun Facts

Timeline
1975
Born in Osaka, Japan
Daisuke Ohata was born on November 11, 1975, in Osaka, Japan. He would go on to become a Japanese rugby player.
1996
Made debut for Japan national team
Ohata made his debut for the Japan national rugby union team in 1996, playing against Canada.
1999
Scored record 69 tries for Japan
Ohata scored a record 69 tries for Japan, becoming the countrys all-time leading try scorer.
2007
Retired from international rugby
Ohata retired from international rugby in 2007, after playing in three Rugby World Cups for Japan.
2011
Inducted into World Rugby Hall of Fame
Ohata was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2011, recognizing his outstanding contributions to Japanese rugby.
Daisuke Ohata

Daisuke Ohata Quiz

Daisuke Ohata is a legendary player in which sport?

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FAQ
What is Daisuke Ohatas rugby career highlights?
Daisuke Ohata is a Japanese rugby player who has played 58 Test matches for Japan between 1998 and 2006. He is Japans all-time leading try scorer with 69 tries.
What position did Daisuke Ohata play in rugby?
Daisuke Ohata played as a wing or fullback for the Japanese national team, known for his pace, agility, and finishing ability.
How did Daisuke Ohata perform in the Rugby World Cup?
Daisuke Ohata represented Japan in three Rugby World Cups, scoring crucial tries in the 1999, 2003, and 2007 tournaments.
What domestic rugby teams did Daisuke Ohata play for?
Daisuke Ohata played for several domestic rugby teams in Japan, including the Ricoh Black Rams and the Suntory Sungoliath.
What is Daisuke Ohatas legacy in Japanese rugby?
Daisuke Ohata is considered one of the greatest players in Japanese rugby history, inspiring a new generation of players with his speed, skill, and dedication to the sport.

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