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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory halts a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished track record against Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to repeat previous dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 team, Australia faced a lot on the line after a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to give less experienced stars their chance, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-week tour. The canny though daring move echoed a previous Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Blows

Japan started with intensity, with front-rower a key forward delivering multiple monster hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, with two locks substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. This required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust their pack and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed for long spells on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense with short-range punches yet unable to break through over 32 rucks. Following probing central channels ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, with Hunter Paisami breaking through and assisting a teammate for a try extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further apparent try from a flanker was disallowed on two occasions because of questionable calls, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with more vigor in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. The Wallabies responded quickly through Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable lead.

However, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, allowing a winger to cross. At 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pressing for a historic victory against Australia.

In the dying minutes, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial scrum then a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a hard-fought victory that sets the squad well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.