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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japan squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory ends a three-game slide and maintains Australia's unblemished track record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also prepares the team for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice XV will strive to replicate previous thrilling win over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 Japan, Australia faced much on the line after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced players an opportunity, fearing fatigue during a grueling five-week road trip. This shrewd yet risky approach echoed a previous Australian experiment in recent years that ended in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

The home side began with intensity, with front-rower a key forward delivering multiple big hits to rattle the visitors. However, the Wallabies steadied and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck in the opening period, as locks second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced the already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure repeatedly near their opponents' line, pounding the defense via short-range punches yet failing to score over thirty-two phases. After testing the middle ineffectively, they eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing the line before setting up Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another apparent try from a flanker got denied twice due to dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half for the Wallabies. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the match tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with more energy in the second period, scoring via Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. Australia hit back soon after through the flanker scoring close in to restore an 11-point lead.

However, Japan responded immediately after the fullback dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, with Japan pushing for a historic win over Australia.

During the dying stages, Australia showed character, winning a crucial scrum then a infringement. The team held on under pressure, clinching a gritty win which sets them up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.