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In a bold strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed their most inexperienced captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side overcame their former coach's Japanese squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Preserving a Unbeaten Run

This narrow win ends three-match losing streak and keeps Australia's unblemished track record against the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it sets them up for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to replicate previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Strategy Pay Off

Facing the 13th-ranked team, Australia had much on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced players their chance, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-week road trip. This canny yet risky move echoed a previous Wallabies attempt in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

First-Half Challenges and Injury Setbacks

Japan started with intensity, including front-rower a key forward landing several big hits to rattle the visitors. However, the Wallabies steadied and improved, with Nick Champion de Crespigny crossing near the line for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries hit in the opening period, as locks locks substituted—one with bruised ribs and his replacement the other with concussion. The situation required the already reshuffled Wallabies to adapt their pack and tactics on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure for long spells on their opponents' line, hammering the defense with short-range attacks but failing to break through for thirty-two phases. After probing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and a center slicing through before assisting a teammate for a score that made it 14-3.

Debatable Calls and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent try by Carlo Tizzano was denied on two occasions due to questionable rulings, highlighting a frustrating first half experienced by Australia. Wet conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the contest tight.

Late Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team came out with renewed energy after halftime, registering through a forward to close the gap to six points. Australia responded quickly with the flanker scoring from a maul to restore a comfortable advantage.

However, Japan struck back after Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, allowing Ben Hunter to score. With the score four points apart, the game was in the balance, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory over Australia.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial set-piece and a infringement. The team held on in the face of a storm, sealing a gritty win which sets them well for the upcoming European tour.