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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies benched a dozen-plus stars and named their most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble paid off, as Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japan team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win halts a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished track record against Japan unbroken. It also sets them up for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their first-choice lineup will strive to replicate previous dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had much to lose following a difficult home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand younger stars an opportunity, fearing tiredness during a demanding five-week road trip. The canny though daring approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan started strongly, with front-rower a key forward landing several big tackles to rattle the visitors. But, the Wallabies steadied and sharpened, as Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing from close range for an early lead.

Injuries hit early, with locks second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required an already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their pack and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia applied pressure repeatedly near the Japanese line, pounding the defense via one-inch attacks but unable to score for 32 phases. Following probing central channels without success, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami slicing through before assisting Josh Flook for a try extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

A further potential score from a flanker got disallowed on two occasions because of questionable rulings, highlighting an aggravating first half for Australia. Wet weather, narrow strategies, and Japan's ferocious tackling ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Conclusion

Japan started with renewed vigor after halftime, registering via a forward to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia responded quickly with the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

However, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after the fullback dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score 19-15, the match hung in the balance, with Japan pressing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

In the final minutes, Australia dug deep, securing a crucial set-piece then a penalty. The team stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty win which sets the squad well for their Northern Hemisphere tour.