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In a bold move, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese team 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow win halts a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished track record against Japan intact. It also prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to repeat last year's dramatic triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 team, the Wallabies faced much to lose after a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger stars their chance, fearing fatigue during a demanding five-week tour. The canny though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan started strongly, with hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple big tackles to rattle Australia. But, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, with locks second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation required the already reshuffled side to adjust their pack and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range punches yet unable to score over 32 rucks. After probing central channels ineffectively, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking through before assisting a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Fightback

A further apparent try from Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions because of dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, limited tactics, and Japan's courageous tackling kept the contest close.

Late Action and Tense Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed vigor in the second period, scoring via a forward to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded quickly with the flanker powering over close in to restore a comfortable lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when the fullback dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to cross. At 19-15, the game hung on a knife-edge, as Japan pressing for their first-ever victory against Australia.

In the dying stages, Australia showed character, winning a crucial scrum then a penalty. They held on in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought win that sets the squad up for the upcoming European tour.