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In a bold strategy, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win ends three-match slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for next week's return to Twickenham, in which the squad's first-choice XV will aim to repeat previous dramatic triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 Japan, Australia had a lot to lose following a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced stars their chance, fearing tiredness over a grueling five-week tour. This shrewd though daring move mirrored a previous Wallabies experiment in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan started with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era landing multiple big hits to rattle Australia. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for an early lead.

Fitness issues struck early, with two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This required the already reshuffled Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed for long spells near the Japanese line, hammering the defense with short-range punches yet unable to score over thirty-two rucks. Following testing the middle without success, they finally went wide from a scrum, with a center slicing through and assisting Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Resilience

A further potential try from Carlo Tizzano got denied twice because of dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period for the Wallabies. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling kept the contest close.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan started with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies hit back quickly through the flanker powering over from a maul to restore an 11-point lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the game was in the balance, as the underdogs pressing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

During the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key set-piece then a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, sealing a gritty victory which prepares them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.