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In a bold move, Australia rested 13 key players and named their least seasoned skipper in 64 years. Against the odds, this gamble proved successful, with the Wallabies defeated their former coach's Japan squad by four points in wet and windy the Japanese capital.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory halts three-match losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' perfect record against the Brave Blossoms intact. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, in which their first-choice lineup will aim to repeat previous thrilling triumph over the English side.

The Coach's Canny Tactics Pay Off

Up against the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia faced a lot to lose after a challenging home season. Head coach the team's strategist chose to hand younger stars an opportunity, concerned about tiredness over a demanding five-week road trip. The canny though daring move mirrored a previous Australian experiment in recent years that resulted in a historic loss to the Italian side.

First-Half Challenges and Fitness Setbacks

Japan began strongly, with hooker Hayate Era landing several monster tackles to rattle the visitors. However, the Wallabies regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 lead.

Injuries hit early, as two second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in the other with concussion. This forced an already revamped side to adapt the team's pack and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Try

The Wallabies applied pressure repeatedly on the Japanese line, hammering the defense via one-inch punches yet failing to break through over 32 rucks. Following probing central channels without success, the team finally spread the ball from a scrum, with a center slicing the line and assisting Josh Flook for a try that made it 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Resilience

A further apparent score by a flanker got disallowed twice because of questionable rulings, summing up an aggravating first half experienced by the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow tactics, and Japan's ferocious tackling ensured the contest tight.

Second-Half Action and Nail-Biting Conclusion

The home team started with renewed vigor after halftime, registering through Shuhei Takeuchi to narrow the deficit to six points. Australia responded soon after through the flanker powering over from a maul to restore an 11-point lead.

But, the Brave Blossoms responded immediately when Andrew Kellaway fumbled a kick, letting Ben Hunter to cross. At 19-15, the match hung on a knife-edge, with Japan pushing for a historic victory against Australia.

In the dying stages, Australia dug deep, securing a key scrum and a penalty. The team stood firm under pressure, clinching a hard-fought victory which sets the squad well for the upcoming European tour.