No.1 Shugo and No.2 Shaun of the Money Rankings "tackled" each other, since 2019 was the Year of World Cup Rugby.

Shaun Norris from South Africa, the winner of the WCR 2019, is also rugby player until he was 16 years old.
"I couldn't go to the stadium to cheer for them, but I was excited and overwhelmed to see my home country win the World Cup. I felt lucky to be in Japan when it happened."

Shaun enjoying the glorious victory of his home country, and doing so well himself, is making the last attack to the current No.1 Money Ranker Shugo Imahira, which is the repeat of the same card as last season's match for the Order of Merit race.

This is Shaun's 4th year on the Tour. His popularity in Japan has grown bigger as he has been in contention for the Money Leader race 2 years in a row.
"I get asked to take photo with them when I walk around the town. I am glad that I am in this position again. I would like to enjoy every minute of this final tournament."

Shugo Imahira is also in the same position, current No.1 on Money Rankings, as last season going into the season finale.
"I think the race for the Money Rankings change every year, but surprisingly it's Shaun and myself again. I will play as usual. I not so much nervous either."

If Shugo defends his title this year, as the Order of Merit Champion, he will become the 5th player to do so following Isao Aoki, Jumbo Ozaki, Tommy Nakajima, and Shingo Katayama. Also, he will renew the youngest record of this magnificent task, which Jumbo made at 27 years 10 months and 14 days. (Shugo will be 27 years 2 months and 6 days.)

"I don't really think I am expected to defend the Title. I rather make more multiple win then just defend the Order of Merit Title. My goal for this season was 3 victories, so I want to end this season by making that 3rd victory this week."

If Shugo makes his wish come true, defending of the Order of Merit Title will come along with it.
JT Cup's pairings are done according to the Money Rankings, so Shugo and Shaun will be in the same group from the Day 1.
"You can't win the tournament on 1st day, even you do really well, you never know what will happen, so I am not so tense about it."
Shugo is Shugo as always, even at this stage.