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With a daring strategy, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and named the team's least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

The close win halts a three-game slide and keeps Australia's unblemished record against the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's fixture to Twickenham, where the squad's top XV will aim to repeat previous thrilling win over England.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 team, Australia had a lot to lose after a difficult home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to give younger players their chance, concerned about fatigue during a demanding five-Test road trip. This canny though daring move mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Fitness Blows

Japan began strongly, including hooker a key forward landing several monster hits to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team steadied and sharpened, with their new captain crossing from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, as two locks forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation forced an already revamped Wallabies to adjust their forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Key Try

Australia pressed for long spells near the Japanese line, hammering the defensive wall via one-inch attacks but unable to score over 32 phases. After probing central channels ineffectively, they eventually went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing through and assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it 14-3.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Fightback

A further potential try from a flanker got denied twice due to dubious rulings, summing up an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, limited tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling kept the match tight.

Second-Half Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with more vigor after halftime, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the gap to six points. Australia responded soon after through Tizzano scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to score. At four points apart, the match hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

During the final minutes, Australia showed character, winning a key set-piece then a infringement. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty win which prepares the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.