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In a bold move, Australia rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japan squad by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win halts a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect record against Japan unbroken. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's fixture to Twickenham, in which their first-choice lineup will strive to replicate previous dramatic triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia faced a lot on the line following a difficult home season. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a grueling five-Test tour. The shrewd though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian experiment in recent years that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Challenges and Fitness Blows

Japan started strongly, with hooker Hayate Era landing multiple monster tackles to unsettle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and improved, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for a 7-0 advantage.

Fitness issues struck early, as two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This forced an already reshuffled side to adjust their pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Try

Australia pressed for long spells near the Japanese line, hammering the defensive wall with short-range punches but failing to score for thirty-two phases. Following testing central channels without success, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami slicing through before assisting Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Controversial Calls and Japan's Resilience

A further potential score by Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions due to dubious calls, summing up a frustrating opening period for Australia. Slippery conditions, limited strategies, and Japan's courageous defense ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan came out with renewed vigor after halftime, registering through a forward to close the deficit to six points. Australia responded quickly with the flanker powering over close in to restore an 11-point lead.

However, Japan responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, letting a winger to cross. With the score 19-15, the match hung in the balance, with Japan pushing for their first-ever win against the Wallabies.

In the final stages, Australia showed character, securing a key scrum and a infringement. They held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty victory that sets them up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.