JR Hokkaido Club secured their 18th consecutive appearance in the tournament by winning the second game of a doubleheader against Nippon Steel Muroran Sharks. After a heavy 11-3 loss in the first game, the team rallied to win the decisive match 4-2.
JR Hokkaido Club defeated Nippon Steel Muroran Sharks to secure their 18th appearance in the 97th Intercity Baseball Tournament, marking their second consecutive qualification. The tournament begins August 26 in Tokyo Dome.
JR Hokkaido President Yasuyuki Watari apologized for bid-rigging allegations in the Hokkaido Shinkansen extension project. The Fair Trade Commission is investigating 9 companies, including JR Hokkaido's subsidiary, for suspected violations of the Anti-Monopoly Act. Local governments expressed concern over project impact and cost justification.
