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In a bold strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned captain 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 wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win halts a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to repeat previous thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced much to lose after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist opted to hand younger stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness during a demanding five-week road trip. This canny yet risky move echoed an earlier Wallabies experiment in recent years that resulted in a historic defeat to Italy.

Early Challenges and Fitness Blows

Japan began with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era delivering multiple monster hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early lead.

Injuries struck early, as locks locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This required the already revamped Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed repeatedly on their opponents' try-line, hammering the defensive wall with short-range punches but failing to score over 32 rucks. Following probing the middle ineffectively, the team eventually went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami breaking through before setting up Josh Flook for a score that made it 14-3.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent score by Carlo Tizzano was denied twice because of questionable rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half experienced by Australia. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the match tight.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan started with more energy in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to 14-8. Australia hit back quickly through the flanker powering over close in to restore a comfortable lead.

However, Japan responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to score. At four points apart, the match was in the balance, with Japan pushing for their first-ever win over Australia.

In the final minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial scrum and a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty victory which prepares them well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.