A new Japan rugby league featuring 12 corporate teams will kick off in September next year, Japan Rugby Football Union officials said Wednesday.
The "Top League" begins Sept. 13 but will take a break after two matches for the World Cup in Australia.
The league will continue through January 2004. "For the players, it means more exciting games and can also help them compete at the international level," said Naoya Okubo, flyhalf and captain of Suntory, which is already ensured a place in the new league.