Pieter Hermias Cornelius "Lappies" Labuschagné, known as ピーター・ハーミアス・コーネリアス "ラピース"・ラブスカフニ (Pītā Hāmiasu Kōneriasu "Rapīsu" Rabusukafuni) in Japanese, is a South African-born Japanese rugby union player who primarily plays as a flanker. He currently plays in the Japanese Top League for the Kubota Spears and has represented Japan at the international level after meeting the residency requirements.
Labuschagné began his career in South Africa, representing the Bulls in Super Rugby and the Free State Cheetahs in the Currie Cup. He also captained the UFS Shimlas in the Varsity Cup, showcasing his leadership skills early on in his career. In 2016, Labuschagné made the move to the Japanese Top League, signing with the Kubota Spears.
While Labuschagné was called up to the South Africa squad for the 2013 mid-year rugby union tests, he did not feature in any of the matches for the Springboks. In 2019, he made his international debut for Japan and went on to represent the country at the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Notably, Labuschagné captained Japan in their Pool A victory over Ireland, making a significant impact on the field.
Labuschagné is recognized as a relentless openside flanker with an exceptional work rate on defense. He is known for his effectiveness at the breakdown and his contributions to the team's defensive efforts. Throughout his career, Labuschagné has demonstrated his skills and abilities at various clubs and has been on the radar of the national teams in both South Africa and Japan.
His journey from South Africa to Japan and his acquisition of Japanese citizenship allowed him to fulfill his dream of representing Japan at the international level. Labuschagné's performances have earned him a place in the Brave Blossoms' squad for the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the opportunity to lead the team in a significant victory over Ireland.
As Labuschagné continues to make his mark in Japanese rugby, his relentless playing style and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to his club and the national team.
KG(02/07/2023)
Career
 |
Kubota Spears Funabashi Tokyo Bay Openside Flanker |
2016 - present |
 |
Sharks Openside Flanker |
2024 - present |
 |
UFS Shimlas Openside Flanker |
2009 - 2012 |
 |
Cheetahs Openside Flanker |
2012 - 2014 |
 |
Free State Cheetahs Blindside Flanker |
2012 - 2014 |
 |
Bulls Blindside Flanker |
2015 - 2016 |
 |
Blue Bulls Blindside Flanker |
2015 - 2016 |
 |
Sunwolves Openside Flanker |
2018 - 2022 |
 |
Grey College Bloemfontein Openside Flanker |
|
 |
Japan XV Openside Flanker |
|
 |
Japan Openside Flanker |
2019 - 2024 |
