TEST RUGBY, ROUND 1,JULY 9th,2023 NZ ALL BLACKS v ARGENTINA PUMAS
Estadio Malvinas Argentina,
Mendoza
In a highly anticipated clash to mark the beginning of the Rugby Championship 2023, the New Zealand All Blacks will lock horns with the Argentina Pumas. Set against the stunning backdrop of Estadio Malvinas Argentinas in Mendoza, this encounter promises to be an intense battle between two rugby powerhouses.
Since the Rugby World Cup 2019, the Pumas have hosted the All Blacks for the first time, with each team securing victories on different occasions. This time, the Estadio Malvinas Argentinas in Mendoza has the privilege of witnessing this epic showdown, as Argentina aims to claim a historic win against New Zealand outside of Buenos Aires province. Notably, the venue has witnessed remarkable performances by the Pumas in the past, including Rugby Championship wins against Australia and South Africa.
The Rugby Championship 2023 holds significant importance for both Argentina and New Zealand, as it marks the beginning of their journey towards the Rugby World Cup. As players vie for spots in the final rosters, coaching staff are meticulously assessing various possibilities, be it player selection or tactical considerations. While some aspects may be revealed, there will undoubtedly be a strategic element held back for future battles.
Leading Los Pumas from the hooker position is the experienced Julián Montoya, who is set to earn his 86th cap. Former captain Pablo Matera will make his 92nd appearance, starting as a flanker for the opening match of 2023 after playing at N8 throughout 2022.
Adding to the excitement, Lucio Sordoni returns for Argentina, earning his 4th cap and his first test start. Joining Montoya and Thomas Gallo in the front-row, Sordoni aims to make a significant impact. The battle-hardened Matías Alemanno and Tomás Lavanini form a formidable locking duo, while Juan Martín González and Rodrigo Bruni join Matera in the back-row.
The starting lineup showcases the talent of Gonzalo Bertranou, who partners with Santiago Carreras in the halves. The surprise inclusion of Lucio Cinto at inside center adds a new dynamic to the team, marking a first in his professional career as he pairs up with Matías Moroni.
The back-three is set to unleash their speed, with Emiliano Boffelli occupying the fullback position, while Bautista Delguy and Mateo Carreras take their places as the wingers. Notably, Carreras will earn his 1st home cap, adding to the anticipation surrounding his performance. Meanwhile, Agustín Creevy and Nicolás Sánchez, two of the most capped Pumas in history, eagerly await their opportunity, both featuring on the bench with Creevy on the verge of his 98th cap and Sánchez approaching his 96th.
The replacements bench boasts the notable selection of Pedro Rubio, who brings his versatility as a second-row, despite his natural position as a flanker for the Newcastle Falcons. Santiago Grondona provides cover as a flanker, while Lautaro Bazán Vélez is the understudy to Bertranou.
On the opposing side, the New Zealand All Blacks present a lineup brimming with depth, talent, and experience. Sam Cane, the captain and flanker, earns his 87th cap, accompanied by hooker Dane Coles (85th cap), second-rower Scott Barrett (59th cap), scrum-half Aaron Smith (115th cap), and fullback Beauden Barrett (113th cap).
A noteworthy decision by coach Ian Foster sees Damian McKenzie entrusted with the No. 10 jersey, marking his long-awaited return to the test arena after more than 19 months. This choice pushes Richie Mo’unga, who played a pivotal role in guiding the Crusaders to the Super Rugby Pacific title, to the reserves.
As the All Blacks embark on their 2023 campaign, aiming to culminate in the Rugby World Cup in France, the team sets its sights on establishing a strong foundation. Richie Mo’unga emphasizes the importance of focusing on the fundamentals, ensuring lightning-quick rucks, effective carrying, and maintaining their trademark attacking style. Simple yet effective, these aspects are crucial in setting the stage for success against the Argentinians.
Last year’s encounters between these two teams showcased contrasting performances. While the All Blacks suffered a historic defeat in Christchurch, they rebounded in Hamilton with a dominant display, resulting in a resounding victory. This year, with only one opportunity to face Argentina due to the compressed competition schedule, the All Blacks are determined to make the most of their chances and deliver a compelling performance.
The All Blacks’ lineup boasts experienced players strategically placed throughout the team. However, due to injury concerns, Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick will be absent from the match-day 23. Nonetheless, rising star Josh Lord will start his third test alongside Scott Barrett in the second row, with Tupou Vaa’i providing cover from the bench. Veteran hooker Dane Coles gets the nod to start, with Codie Taylor providing backup.
As the stage is set for this enthralling encounter, fans eagerly await the clash between the New Zealand All Blacks and the Argentina Pumas. The battle for dominance in the Rugby Championship 2023 commences, and rugby enthusiasts worldwide brace themselves for a spectacle filled with grit, skill, and relentless determination.
Pumas : 1 Thomas Gallo, 2 Julián Montoya (capt.), 3 Lucio Sordoni, 4 Matías Alemanno, 5 Tomás Lavanini, 6 Pablo Matera, 7 Juan Martín González, 8 Rodrigo Bruni, 9 Gonzalo Bertranou, 10 Santiago Carreras, 11 Mateo Carreras, 12 Lucio Cinti, 13 Matías Moroni, 14 Bautista Delguy, 15 Emiliano Boffelli
Reserves: 16 Agustín Creevy, 17 Mayco Vivas, 18 Eduardo Bello, 19 Pedro Rubiolo, 20 Santiago Grondona, 21 Lautaro Bazán Vélez, 22 Nicolás Sánchez, 23 Matías Orlando
All Blacks: Beauden Barrett, Emoni Narawa, Rieko Ioane, Jordie Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Damian McKenzie, Aaron Smith, Ardie Savea, Sam Cane (captain), Shannon Frizell, Josh Lord, Scott Barrett, Tyrel Lomax, Dane Coles, Ethan de Groot.
Reserves: Codie Taylor, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Nepo Laulala, Tupou Vaa’i, Dalton Papali’i, Finlay Christie, Richie Mo’unga, Braydon Ennor.
Referee: Angus Gardner (AU)
Assistant Referees: Nic Berry (AU); Jordan Way (AU)
TMO: Brett Cronan (AU)
Can Argentina make history by winning at home against the All Blacks in 2023? 42,500 people will be in attendance with roars certain for the South American team. The match is the only scheduled fixture between Argentina and New Zealand in 2023. A second meeting would mean a clash in the late stages of the World Cup.
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