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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and appointed the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win ends a three-game slide and maintains Australia's unblemished record versus Japan intact. It also prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice XV will strive to repeat previous thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, Australia had much to lose following a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to give less experienced stars their chance, fearing fatigue over a demanding five-week tour. The shrewd yet risky move mirrored an earlier Wallabies experiment in 2022 that resulted in a historic loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Blows

The home side started strongly, including front-rower Hayate Era delivering multiple monster hits to rattle Australia. However, the Australian team steadied and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for an early lead.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, with two locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's pack and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on their opponents' line, hammering the defense with one-inch attacks but unable to score over 32 phases. After probing the middle ineffectively, they finally spread the ball from a scrum, and a center breaking through and assisting a teammate for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

Another apparent score by a flanker got disallowed on two occasions due to dubious calls, summing up a frustrating first half for Australia. Wet weather, narrow strategies, and Japan's ferocious tackling ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team started with more energy after halftime, scoring via a forward to close the gap to six points. The Wallabies hit back quickly with Tizzano powering over close in to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting Ben Hunter to cross. With the score four points apart, the game was in the balance, with Japan pushing for their first-ever win against Australia.

During the dying stages, the Wallabies showed character, securing a key scrum then a infringement. The team held on in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought win which prepares them well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.