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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and named the team's least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japanese team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close victory halts three-match slide and maintains Australia's unblemished track record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming return to Twickenham, in which their first-choice XV will strive to repeat previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose after a challenging domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand less experienced stars their chance, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-week tour. The shrewd yet risky move mirrored a previous Australian experiment in recent years that resulted in a historic defeat to Italy.

Early Challenges and Injury Blows

Japan started with intensity, including front-rower a key forward landing multiple big tackles to unsettle the visitors. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with their new captain crossing near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries hit early, with two second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. This required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their pack and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed for long spells near their opponents' line, hammering the defense via short-range attacks yet unable to score over 32 rucks. Following testing the middle ineffectively, the team eventually went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing the line before setting up Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and The Opposition's Fightback

Another potential try by a flanker was denied twice because of dubious calls, highlighting a frustrating first half for Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the contest tight.

Late Action and Tense Finish

The home team started with renewed vigor after halftime, scoring via a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. The Wallabies hit back quickly through the flanker powering over from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when the fullback dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to cross. With the score 19-15, the match hung in the balance, with Japan pressing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

In the dying minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a key scrum and a infringement. They held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win that prepares the squad well for the upcoming European tour.