A rugby match takes place at Tokyo’s Fuwaku club

The most remarkable aspect of these running, passing, mauling, scrummaging players is their age

Fuwaku, founded in 1948, is one of about 150 Japanese clubs that stage competitive, full-contact matches for players over the age of 40, with the oldest man being 86 years old

In a country where there is much concern over the loneliness of the elderly, rugby keeps the players active and offers a readymade social life

Fuwaku’s general manager, Mitsuaki Okajima, estimates there are about 10,000 veteran rugby players at clubs across Japan; his club alone has 300 players competing across all age categories

Fuwaku rugby club players form a scrum

Ryuichi Nagayama, 86, Fuwaku’s oldest player, warms up before the match

‘Since I joined Fuwaku club, I have broken ribs many times and my collarbone too,’ said Nagayama

Nagayama examines a patient at his hospital in Tokyo. As a doctor, he is aware of the risks involved in playing a high impact sport at his age and the club’s website gives advice on health precautions and even links to a life insurance company

‘I can’t stand not playing ... This may sound strange, but I lost my wife years ago and now I would say I don’t mind dying playing rugby,’ said Nagayama

‘You tackle and battle each other, but the gathering after the play is so enjoyable and fun,’ said Nagayama. ‘No one gets angry about how we played. The atmosphere is great ...’

A Fuwaku player grimaces after the match

Fuwaku players have a drink at a restaurant after their match