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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested 13 key players and named their most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan team 19-15 in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts three-match slide and maintains Australia's unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's first-choice XV will strive to replicate previous dramatic triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 Japan, Australia faced much on the line after a challenging home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to hand younger stars their chance, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-week road trip. The shrewd though daring move echoed an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

Early Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan started with intensity, including front-rower Hayate Era landing multiple monster hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Australian team steadied and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for an early lead.

Fitness issues struck early, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. The situation required an already revamped side to adjust their pack and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells near the Japanese try-line, hammering the defense with short-range attacks but failing to score for 32 rucks. Following probing the middle ineffectively, they eventually went wide from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami slicing the line before assisting Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Controversial Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

Another potential try from a flanker was disallowed twice because of questionable rulings, summing up a frustrating first half for the Wallabies. Wet weather, limited strategies, and Japan's courageous defense ensured the match close.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Finish

Japan came out with renewed energy in the second period, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the gap to six points. The Wallabies responded quickly through Tizzano powering over from a maul to re-establish an 11-point advantage.

But, Japan responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the match hung on a knife-edge, with Japan pressing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial set-piece then a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a hard-fought victory that prepares them up for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere fixtures.