🔗 Share this article

In a bold strategy, Australia rested 13 key players and named the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this high-stakes decision paid off, with the Wallabies defeated ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan squad by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Snapping a Slide and Maintaining a Unbeaten Run

This narrow victory ends a three-game losing streak and maintains the Wallabies' unblemished track record versus Japan unbroken. It also prepares the team for the upcoming return to Twickenham, where their first-choice lineup will strive to repeat previous dramatic triumph over the English side.

Schmidt's Shrewd Strategy Bring Rewards

Up against world No. 13 Japan, the Wallabies had much to lose after a challenging home season. Head coach Joe Schmidt chose to give younger players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-Test tour. The shrewd yet risky move echoed an earlier Australian attempt in recent years that ended in a historic defeat to Italy.

First-Half Struggles and Injury Blows

Japan began strongly, with hooker Hayate Era delivering several big hits to unsettle Australia. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain scoring near the line for an early advantage.

Injuries struck early, with two second-rowers forced off—one with bruised ribs and stand-in Josh Canham. The situation required the already revamped side to adjust the team's forward lineup and tactics on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Key Try

The Wallabies pressed for long spells on their opponents' try-line, hammering the defense via one-inch punches but failing to score for 32 rucks. Following probing central channels ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and a center slicing through and setting up a teammate for a try that made it 14-3.

Controversial Decisions and Japan's Fightback

A further apparent try from Carlo Tizzano got disallowed on two occasions due to dubious rulings, summing up an aggravating first half for Australia. Wet weather, limited tactics, and Japan's courageous defense kept the match close.

Late Drama and Nail-Biting Finish

The home team started with renewed vigor in the second period, registering through a forward to close the gap to six points. Australia responded soon after through Tizzano powering over close in to re-establish a comfortable advantage.

But, the Brave Blossoms struck back when the fullback fumbled a grubber, allowing Ben Hunter to score. At four points apart, the match was on a knife-edge, as Japan pushing for a historic win over Australia.

During the final stages, Australia showed character, winning a key scrum and a penalty. The team held on in the face of a storm, sealing a hard-fought victory which prepares the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.