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With a daring move, Australia benched 13 key players and named their most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japanese squad 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts a three-game losing streak and keeps Australia's perfect record against Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice XV will aim to replicate previous dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies faced much to lose after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced stars an opportunity, concerned about tiredness during a demanding five-Test road trip. The canny yet risky approach mirrored a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started strongly, with front-rower Hayate Era landing several big tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for an early lead.

Fitness issues hit in the opening period, with locks locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement Josh Canham. The situation required the already revamped side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near the Japanese line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range punches yet unable to score for thirty-two phases. After testing the middle ineffectively, they finally went wide from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami slicing through and assisting Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential score from a flanker was denied on two occasions because of dubious rulings, highlighting a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and Japan's courageous tackling ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan started with more vigor after halftime, registering through a forward to close the gap to six points. Australia responded soon after through the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, letting a winger to score. With the score 19-15, the game was in the balance, as the underdogs pushing for a historic win over the Wallabies.

In the final stages, Australia showed character, winning a key scrum and a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought win which prepares the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.