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In a bold strategy, Australia benched 13 key players and named the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends three-match losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect track record versus Japan intact. It also sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's top XV will strive to replicate last year's dramatic win over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked team, Australia faced much to lose following a difficult home season. Head coach the team's strategist chose to give less experienced stars their chance, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-week tour. The canny though daring move echoed an earlier Australian experiment in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Blows

The home side began with intensity, including hooker a key forward landing multiple big tackles to rattle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, as two locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This forced an already revamped Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

Australia pressed repeatedly near their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall via one-inch punches yet failing to score for 32 phases. Following testing central channels ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami slicing the line and setting up a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

Another apparent try by Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions due to dubious calls, summing up a frustrating first half for Australia. Wet conditions, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the contest close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with renewed energy in the second period, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. The Wallabies responded quickly with Tizzano scoring close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, as Japan pushing for a historic victory over Australia.

During the dying minutes, Australia showed character, winning a crucial set-piece and a infringement. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win which sets them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.