The All Blacks will put home field advantage aside when they take a potential series-deciding Bledisloe Cup Test to Japan in 2018.
Fox Sports Australia is reporting the Test against the Wallabies will take place in late October, one week before the world champions take on Japan.
The trans-Tasman rivals last played in Japan in 2009, when the All Blacks ran out 32-19 winners in Tokyo.
The Test would be the perfect opportunity for both teams to familiarise themselves with the country before the 2019 World Cup a year later.
At the draw for the tournament earlier this year All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said the match against Japan was crucial in the lead up to their World Cup defence.
"We're delighted to be returning to Japan for what no doubt will be a great occasion," Hansen said in May.
"The match against the Brave Blossoms will be an important part of our preparation towards 2019.
"It'll give our team the chance to experience the unique environment and culture we will return to the following year."
The All Blacks retained the Bledisloe Cup for the 15th consecutive year in August, but suffered a 5-point loss to the Wallabies earlier this month in Brisbane.
Newshub.
