The Japanese side, who's future remains under a cloud with speculation they are set to be cut from the competition, host the South African-based Lions in Singapore on Saturday.

Aside from suiting up for the World XV in a friendly against the Japanese national side last year, the biggest stage Gunter has played on, the former Red Devils junior admitted he couldn't sleep on Friday night.

"The most intimidating/best feeling was when I was standing in the tunnel just before I was about to take the field knowing that I have my family and friends supporting me even though they are half a world away," he said.

"I do what I do for my family to make them proud."

"The feeling of making your family proud is the best feeling in the world."

Taken under Wallabies star David Pocock's wing during his stint with Gunter's Japanese club side Panasonic Wild Knights, the 21-year old has developed into a defensive powerhouse, as he illustrated against the Reds.

Despite only playing 45 minutes he was the Sunwolves second top tackler.

"I was very happy with my defence in the game," Gunter said.

"My pop always tells me get an early tackle or a carry and you will be fine so that was one of my mini goals for the game."

He said he doesn't though really remember a lot from the game "because everything's happening at once".

"If anything you only remember the bad things you did," he said noting that he gave away "some unnecessary penalties".

His first taste of Super Rugby, he said the biggest difference to the Japanese top league is that you can't afford to make too many mistakes or give too many penalties away "because you will pay for that in points".