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In a bold move, the Wallabies rested a dozen-plus stars and named their most inexperienced skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision proved successful, with the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan team 19-15 in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Ending a Losing Streak and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory ends a three-game losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record versus Japan intact. It also sets them up for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which the squad's first-choice lineup will strive to replicate previous dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Shrewd Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies had a lot on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced players an opportunity, fearing tiredness over a grueling five-Test tour. This shrewd though daring move echoed a previous Australian attempt in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Setbacks

The home side began with intensity, with hooker Hayate Era landing multiple big tackles to unsettle the visitors. But, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, as their new captain crossing from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries struck early, as two locks forced off—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and stand-in the other with concussion. This required an already revamped Wallabies to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies applied pressure for long spells on their opponents' try-line, pounding the defense via one-inch punches yet failing to score over 32 phases. Following testing central channels without success, they finally went wide at the set-piece, with a center slicing through and assisting Josh Flook for a score that made it 14-3.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Resilience

Another potential try by a flanker got disallowed twice due to questionable calls, summing up an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Wet weather, limited tactics, and Japan's courageous defense kept the contest close.

Second-Half Action and Tense Finish

Japan came out with renewed energy after halftime, scoring through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded soon after with Tizzano scoring from a maul to re-establish a comfortable lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately after Andrew Kellaway dropped a grubber, allowing a winger to score. With the score 19-15, the game hung on a knife-edge, with Japan pushing for a historic win against the Wallabies.

In the dying stages, the Wallabies showed character, winning a key set-piece then a infringement. The team held on in the face of a storm, clinching a gritty win which prepares them well for the upcoming European fixtures.