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In a bold strategy, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and appointed their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Against the odds, 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.

Snapping a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close victory ends a three-game slide and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished record against the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for next week's return to Twickenham, where their first-choice XV will aim to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

The Coach's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot on the line following a challenging domestic campaign. Coach the team's strategist chose to give younger players their chance, concerned about tiredness over a grueling five-Test road trip. The canny yet risky approach mirrored a previous Australian attempt in recent years that ended in an unprecedented defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

The home side began strongly, including front-rower Hayate Era landing several monster hits to rattle the visitors. But, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues struck in the opening period, as locks second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced the already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt the team's forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Attack and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies pressed repeatedly on their opponents' line, pounding the defense with short-range punches yet failing to score over 32 rucks. Following probing the middle ineffectively, the team finally spread the ball from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami breaking the line before assisting Josh Flook for a score extending the lead to 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Resilience

Another potential score from Carlo Tizzano was denied twice because of dubious rulings, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Slippery weather, limited strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense ensured the contest tight.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with more vigor after halftime, registering through a forward to close the deficit to 14-8. Australia hit back soon after through Tizzano scoring from a maul to re-establish an 11-point lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when the fullback fumbled a grubber, letting a winger to cross. With the score four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, as Japan pushing for their first-ever victory over the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies showed character, winning a crucial set-piece and a penalty. The team stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty victory which prepares them well for their European fixtures.