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In a bold strategy, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and named the team's least seasoned captain in over six decades. Against the odds, this high-stakes decision paid off, as the Wallabies overcame their former coach's Japan team by four points in a rain-soaked Tokyo.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

The close victory halts a three-game losing streak and keeps the Wallabies' unblemished record versus the Brave Blossoms unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's return to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice XV will strive to replicate last year's dramatic win over England.

The Coach's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, the Wallabies faced a lot to lose after a difficult domestic campaign. Coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced players their chance, fearing fatigue during a grueling five-Test tour. This shrewd though daring approach echoed a previous Australian attempt in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to Italy.

Early Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

The home side started with intensity, including hooker a key forward delivering several big hits to rattle the visitors. But, the Wallabies regained composure and improved, with their new captain scoring near the line for an early lead.

Injuries hit early, as locks second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. This forced the already revamped side to adapt their forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Challenging Offense and Breakthrough Score

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on their opponents' line, hammering the defensive wall via short-range punches but failing to score over 32 phases. After testing central channels without success, the team finally went wide from a scrum, and a center breaking through and setting up a teammate for a score that made it eleven points.

Debatable Calls and Japan's Fightback

A further apparent try from Carlo Tizzano got disallowed on two occasions due to dubious rulings, summing up an aggravating opening period for Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow tactics, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous tackling ensured the match tight.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team came out with renewed vigor in the second period, registering via a forward to narrow the deficit to six points. The Wallabies responded soon after with Tizzano scoring close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway dropped a kick, letting a winger to score. At four points apart, the game hung on a knife-edge, with the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory against the Wallabies.

In the dying minutes, Australia dug deep, winning a crucial set-piece then a infringement. The team stood firm in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought win which sets them up for the upcoming European fixtures.