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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japanese squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win ends three-match losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice XV will aim to replicate previous thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose after a challenging home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger players their chance, fearing fatigue during a grueling five-week tour. The canny yet risky approach echoed a previous Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

The home side began strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era landing several big hits to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, with their new captain crossing from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Fitness issues struck early, with two second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. This forced an already reshuffled side to adjust their forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense with short-range punches but unable to break through over thirty-two rucks. Following probing the middle without success, the team eventually spread the ball from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking through and setting up a teammate for a score that made it 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try by Carlo Tizzano got disallowed twice due to questionable rulings, summing up an aggravating opening period for Australia. Slippery weather, limited tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling kept the match close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan started with renewed energy in the second period, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to 14-8. Australia responded quickly through the flanker scoring close in to restore a comfortable lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back after Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting a winger to cross. With the score 19-15, the game hung in the balance, as Japan pushing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

During the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key scrum then a penalty. They held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty victory which prepares them up for the upcoming European fixtures.