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In a bold strategy, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and named the team's most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, with the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan squad 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close win halts a three-game slide and maintains Australia's unblemished track record versus Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's top lineup will strive to repeat last year's dramatic win over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies had a lot on the line after a challenging home season. Coach Joe Schmidt chose to give less experienced players an opportunity, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-week tour. The canny though daring approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

Japan started with intensity, including hooker a key forward delivering several monster hits to rattle the visitors. However, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, with locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced the already reshuffled side to adjust the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Key Score

Australia applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese try-line, hammering the defense with one-inch punches but failing to break through for thirty-two phases. After testing central channels without success, the team finally spread the ball at the set-piece, with a center breaking through and assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

A further potential score by Carlo Tizzano got disallowed on two occasions due to dubious rulings, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Slippery conditions, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling ensured the contest close.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with renewed vigor in the second period, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. Australia hit back soon after with Tizzano powering over close in to restore an 11-point lead.

But, Japan struck back when the fullback fumbled a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. At four points apart, the match hung in the balance, with Japan pressing for their first-ever win over the Wallabies.

During the dying minutes, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial scrum and a penalty. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought victory which sets the squad well for the upcoming European tour.