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In a bold move, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory halts three-match losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record against Japan intact. It also prepares the team for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top lineup will strive to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia had much on the line after a challenging domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand less experienced players an opportunity, fearing tiredness during a grueling five-Test road trip. The shrewd yet risky move echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple big tackles to unsettle Australia. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, as locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. This required the already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Challenging Offense and Key Score

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on the Japanese try-line, hammering the defensive wall with one-inch punches yet unable to score over thirty-two phases. After probing central channels ineffectively, they finally spread the ball at the set-piece, with a center slicing through before setting up a teammate for a try extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

A further potential score from a flanker was disallowed on two occasions because of dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half for Australia. Slippery weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous tackling ensured the match tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring via a forward to close the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back quickly with the flanker powering over from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

However, Japan struck back when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, allowing a winger to score. At 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, as Japan pressing for a historic victory against Australia.

In the dying stages, Australia showed character, securing a key set-piece and a penalty. The team held on under pressure, sealing a gritty win that sets them up for their European tour.