Argentina’s national rugby team, Los Pumas, is preparing to face South Africa’s Springboks in the Rugby Championship. The match is crucial for the Pumas, who have held the last place in the competition for six consecutive years. The outcome of the match will determine not only the title but also the Pumas’ position in the competition.
Changes in the Argentinean Lineup
Coach Michael Cheika has made significant changes to the Argentinean lineup for the upcoming match. The Pumas are determined to upset the more-favored Springboks and avoid the dreaded “wooden spoon.” Cheika hopes to break the unwanted streak by introducing fresh talent into the starting lineup.
New Additions to the Lineup
Following the Pumas’ victory over Australia in Sydney less than two weeks ago, the team has undergone a series of changes. The starting lineup now includes Santiago Chocobares at center, Lucas Paulos in the lock position, scrumhalf Lautaro Bazan Velez, wing Juan Imhoff, and fullback Juan Cruz Mallía. Among the substitutes, Ignacio Ruiz, Joel Sclavi, Facundo Isa, and Tomas Albornoz will be making their first appearances in 2023.
Withheld Veteran Hooker
Veteran hooker Agustín Creevy has been withheld from the match against the Springboks. This decision allows him to play his 100th Test match on home soil next week. Argentina will host South Africa in a Rugby World Cup warm-up in Buenos Aires, where Creevy will become the Pumas’ first-ever Test centurion.
Revamped Argentine Team Lineup
The revamped Argentine team facing off against the Springboks includes Juan Cruz Mallia as fullback, Mateo Carreras and Juan Imhoff as wings, Lucio Cinti and Santiago Chocobares as centers, Santiago Carreras as fly-half, and Lautaro Bazan Velez as scrumhalf. The forward pack is led by Juan Martin Gonzalez at number eight, Santiago Grondona at flanker, Pablo Matera at blindside, Tomas Lavanini and Lucas Paulos as locks, Francisco Gomez Kodela as tighthead prop, Julian Montoya (captain) as hooker, and Thomas Gallo as loosehead prop.
Substitute Lineup
The substitute lineup features Ignacio Ruiz, Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro, Joel Sclavi, Pedro Rubiolo, Facundo Isa, Gonzalo Bertranou, Tomas Albornoz, and Matias Moroni.
As anticipation builds for this crucial match, Argentina’s rugby fans will be watching closely to see if the team’s new lineup can break the longstanding last-place streak and pave the way for a more successful future in the Rugby Championship.
