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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win halts three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan intact. It also sets them up for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to replicate previous dramatic win over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia had much to lose following a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced stars their chance, concerned about fatigue during a grueling five-week tour. The shrewd though daring approach mirrored a previous Australian experiment in 2022 that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

The home side began strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple big hits to unsettle Australia. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as their new captain crossing from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues hit early, as locks locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This required the already revamped side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Key Score

Australia pressed for long spells on their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range attacks yet unable to score over thirty-two phases. Following probing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing through and setting up a teammate for a try that made it 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Resilience

A further apparent score from Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice due to dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating first half for Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous defense ensured the match close.

Late Drama and Tense Finish

The home team started with more energy after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded soon after through the flanker powering over from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back when the fullback fumbled a grubber, allowing a winger to cross. At four points apart, the match hung on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

During the dying stages, Australia dug deep, securing a key set-piece and a infringement. The team held on under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory which sets them up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.