It was announced on April 23, 2014, that idol group Kanjani8's member Murakami Shingo (32) has been appointed as the main newscaster for TBS's coverage of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. 

This is the first time in 36 years that the World Cup would be held in South America, and Murakami commented, "It doesn't matter whether you know about soccer or not. I hope to bring to the audience the fun moments of the World Cup, as well as the drama and touching moments during the World Cup." 

Joining Murakami will be comedian Kato Koji (44) who has been the MC for the soccer news program "SUPER SOCCER" for 13 years. As a soccer fan, Kato commented excitedly, "This would probably be the only time that the World Cup will be held in Brazil during my life time. If we don't hype things up this time, when will we ever get to do it again! I am so excited I can't work anymore!" 

Murakami will be covering "Japan VS Ivory Coast" and "Spain vs Holland" among other matches as the "Samurai Caster". He had previously also worked with Kato during the Euro Cup in 2012 and said, "While feeling Kato-san's fervent passion for soccer and Brazil's sunny weather, I will use all my energy to show my full-hearted support for the Japan National Soccer Team."

Source & Image: Oricon