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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, as Australia's national rugby side defeated their former coach's Japanese team 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match losing streak and maintains Australia's perfect record against the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top lineup will aim to repeat previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies had much on the line following a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to give younger players an opportunity, fearing fatigue during a grueling five-Test road trip. This canny though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Blows

Japan began strongly, including front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple big hits to rattle the visitors. But, the Wallabies steadied and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for an early lead.

Injuries struck early, with locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Key Score

Australia pressed repeatedly on the Japanese line, pounding the defense with short-range attacks yet failing to score for 32 phases. Following probing central channels without success, the team eventually spread the ball from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking the line before assisting a teammate for a try extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Fightback

A further potential try by Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice because of questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period for the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and Japan's courageous defense kept the match tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan started with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. Australia hit back quickly with Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore an 11-point lead.

However, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to cross. With the score 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies showed character, winning a crucial scrum and a infringement. They held on under pressure, sealing a hard-fought win that prepares the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.