🔗 Share this article

With a daring move, Australia benched 13 key players and appointed their least seasoned skipper in over six decades. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, as Australia's national rugby side overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in wet and windy Tokyo.

Ending a Losing Streak and Preserving a Perfect Record

This narrow victory halts a three-game losing streak and maintains Australia's unblemished record against Japan intact. It also sets them up for the upcoming fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top lineup will strive to replicate last year's dramatic win over the English side.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing world No. 13 Japan, Australia had much to lose following a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach the team's strategist opted to give younger players an opportunity, concerned about tiredness during a grueling five-Test road trip. The shrewd yet risky move mirrored a previous Australian attempt in 2022 that resulted in a historic defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Fitness Setbacks

The home side started strongly, with hooker a key forward delivering several big hits to unsettle the visitors. But, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain scoring from close range for a 7-0 advantage.

Injuries hit early, with two locks substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement Josh Canham. This required the already revamped side to adapt the team's pack and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Attack and Breakthrough Try

Australia applied pressure repeatedly near the Japanese try-line, pounding the defensive wall via short-range attacks but unable to score over thirty-two phases. After probing central channels without success, the team eventually went wide from a scrum, and Hunter Paisami slicing the line before assisting a teammate for a try that made it eleven points.

Controversial Decisions and The Opposition's Resilience

Another apparent score by a flanker was disallowed on two occasions because of dubious calls, highlighting an aggravating opening period for the Wallabies. Wet weather, narrow strategies, and Japan's courageous defense kept the match tight.

Second-Half Drama and Tense Conclusion

The home team came out with more energy in the second period, registering through a forward to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded soon after with Tizzano scoring close in to re-establish a comfortable lead.

However, Japan struck back when the fullback dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. At four points apart, the game was on a knife-edge, as the underdogs pushing for their first-ever victory against Australia.

In the final stages, the Wallabies dug deep, securing a crucial scrum and a penalty. They stood firm under pressure, clinching a gritty win which sets the squad up for their Northern Hemisphere tour.