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With a daring move, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, as Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japanese squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory ends three-match slide and maintains Australia's unblemished record against the Brave Blossoms intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's top XV will aim to replicate last year's thrilling win over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Up against the 13th-ranked team, Australia had a lot on the line after a challenging home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to give younger stars an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-Test tour. This shrewd though daring move mirrored a previous Wallabies experiment in 2022 that resulted in a historic defeat to Italy.

Early Challenges and Injury Blows

Japan began with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era landing several big hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for an early lead.

Injuries hit early, with two locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation forced the already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their pack and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Key Try

Australia pressed repeatedly near the Japanese line, pounding the defense with short-range attacks yet unable to break through for thirty-two phases. Following testing the middle without success, the team finally went wide from a scrum, with Hunter Paisami breaking the line and setting up a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

Another apparent try from Carlo Tizzano got denied twice because of dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating opening period for Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious defense kept the contest close.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team started with more energy in the second period, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back soon after with Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable advantage.

However, the Brave Blossoms struck back after the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to score. At four points apart, the match hung in the balance, with the underdogs pressing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key set-piece and a penalty. They stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought win which prepares the squad well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.