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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and named the team's most inexperienced skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close win ends a three-game losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished track record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's return to Twickenham, where the squad's first-choice XV will aim to replicate last year's dramatic triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies had a lot on the line following a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to give younger players an opportunity, fearing fatigue during a demanding five-Test tour. The canny yet risky move mirrored a previous Wallabies attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Blows

The home side started strongly, with hooker a key forward delivering several monster tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries hit early, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation forced an already revamped side to adjust their forward lineup and game plan mid-match.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese line, pounding the defense with one-inch punches yet failing to score for thirty-two phases. After testing central channels ineffectively, the team finally went wide from a scrum, with a center breaking the line before assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Resilience

A further apparent try from Carlo Tizzano was disallowed twice due to dubious calls, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, narrow strategies, and Japan's ferocious tackling kept the match close.

Late Drama and Tense Finish

The home team started with more energy in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to 14-8. Australia responded soon after through the flanker scoring close in to re-establish an 11-point lead.

However, Japan struck back after the fullback dropped a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to cross. At four points apart, the game was in the balance, with Japan pushing for their first-ever victory over the Wallabies.

In the final minutes, Australia showed character, securing a crucial scrum then a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty victory that prepares the squad well for the upcoming European fixtures.