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In a bold move, Australia rested 13 key players and named their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, as the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory ends a three-game losing streak and keeps Australia's perfect record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice lineup will strive to replicate last year's dramatic win over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Tactics Pay Off

Up against world No. 13 Japan, Australia had much on the line after a challenging home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to give younger stars their chance, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-week road trip. This shrewd yet risky approach mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started strongly, with front-rower a key forward landing multiple monster hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, with their new captain scoring from close range for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, as locks locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced the already revamped side to adjust their forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed repeatedly near the Japanese try-line, pounding the defensive wall via short-range attacks but failing to score over 32 phases. After probing the middle without success, the team eventually spread the ball at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami breaking through and assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it eleven points.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Fightback

A further apparent score from a flanker was disallowed on two occasions due to questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet weather, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling kept the contest tight.

Second-Half Action and Tense Conclusion

Japan came out with more vigor in the second period, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to six points. Australia responded soon after through the flanker scoring close in to restore an 11-point advantage.

However, Japan struck back when the fullback dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to cross. With the score four points apart, the match hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

During the dying stages, Australia showed character, securing a key set-piece and a infringement. They held on in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought victory that sets the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.