Prince of Wales turns the air royal blue as he meets the Welsh rugby team ahead of clash with South Africa

The Prince of Wales turned the air royal blue today when he visited the Welsh training ground in Tokyo ahead of their semi final against South Africa.

"They’re bloody big buggers aren’t they," he said of the Springboks.

The prince chatted to head coach Warren Gatland and Alun Wyn-Jones before receiving a team jersey from the Welsh captain.

Prince Charles has met the Wales rugby team in Japan ahead of their semi-final meet with South Africa. Credit: PA

He then presented Owen Lane, a replacement who’s just arrived in Japan, with his Welsh cap.

After watching a few minutes training he posed for a team photo before heading on his way.

The Welsh don’t usually interrupt their preparations for anyone but they made an exception today, hoping one of their most high-profile fans might bring them luck.

Outside the stadiums and training, fans who have travelled from Wales to Japan are preparing themselves for the match.

Filmed by ITV News, supporters gathered in Tokyo outside a temple gave a heart-warming performance of Calon Lân.

Earlier in the tournament, at the opening ceremony, Welsh players sang a rendition of the song.

Wales' semi final against South Africa is on Sunday in Yokohama.