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In a bold strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and named their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble paid off, as Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close win halts a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's first-choice XV will aim to replicate last year's dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Pay Off

Facing world No. 13 Japan, Australia had much to lose after a difficult home season. Coach the team's strategist opted to give less experienced stars their chance, fearing tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. This shrewd though daring move mirrored an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in an unprecedented loss to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Blows

The home side started with intensity, including front-rower a key forward delivering multiple monster tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain scoring near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit early, with locks second-rowers substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. This forced the already revamped side to adjust their pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells on the Japanese try-line, hammering the defense with one-inch attacks but failing to break through over 32 rucks. After probing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, with a center slicing through before assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it 14-3.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Resilience

Another apparent score by Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions due to questionable calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery weather, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling ensured the match close.

Late Drama and Tense Conclusion

The home team came out with renewed energy after halftime, registering via Shuhei Takeuchi to close the deficit to 14-8. Australia hit back soon after with the flanker powering over from a maul to re-establish a comfortable lead.

But, Japan responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing a winger to cross. At 19-15, the game was on a knife-edge, as Japan pressing for a historic win over the Wallabies.

During the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a key scrum then a infringement. They held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty victory that prepares the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere fixtures.