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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and named the team's most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory halts a three-game slide and maintains Australia's unblemished record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice XV will aim to repeat previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had a lot on the line after a challenging domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand younger stars an opportunity, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-Test road trip. The canny yet risky approach mirrored a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in a historic loss to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side began strongly, with front-rower a key forward delivering multiple big tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Wallabies steadied and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck early, with two second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required an already revamped side to adapt their forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly near their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense via short-range attacks yet unable to break through for 32 phases. After probing the middle without success, the team eventually went wide at the set-piece, with a center slicing through and assisting a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

A further apparent try by a flanker was denied twice because of dubious rulings, summing up a frustrating opening period for the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the match tight.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Finish

Japan started with more vigor after halftime, scoring via a forward to narrow the gap to six points. Australia hit back soon after through the flanker powering over from a maul to restore a comfortable advantage.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the match was on a knife-edge, as Japan pressing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

In the dying minutes, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial scrum and a penalty. They held on under pressure, clinching a hard-fought victory which prepares them well for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.