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In a bold move, the Wallabies benched 13 key players and named the team's most inexperienced captain in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japanese squad 19-15 in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Preserving a Perfect Record

The close victory halts a three-game slide and keeps Australia's perfect record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. It also sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, where the squad's top lineup will strive to repeat last year's thrilling triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked team, the Wallabies had much to lose following a difficult home season. Coach the team's strategist chose to give less experienced stars their chance, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-week tour. This canny though daring approach mirrored an earlier Wallabies attempt in recent years that ended in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Struggles and Fitness Blows

The home side began with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era delivering several big hits to unsettle the visitors. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, with Nick Champion de Crespigny scoring near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues struck early, with locks second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. This forced an already revamped side to adjust their pack and tactics mid-match.

Frustrating Attack and Key Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells near their opponents' line, pounding the defensive wall with short-range punches but unable to break through for 32 rucks. After testing the middle without success, the team finally spread the ball at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing through before setting up a teammate for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent score by a flanker was disallowed on two occasions due to dubious rulings, summing up a frustrating opening period experienced by the Wallabies. Wet conditions, limited tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' ferocious tackling kept the match close.

Late Action and Tense Conclusion

Japan came out with more vigor after halftime, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia hit back soon after with Tizzano powering over from a maul to restore a comfortable lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after the fullback fumbled a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to cross. At 19-15, the game was in the balance, with Japan pressing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

In the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, winning a crucial scrum then a infringement. They held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty victory that sets the squad well for the upcoming Northern Hemisphere tour.