Argentina and South Africa continue a busy period of international action with an intriguing clash in Buenos Aires.
This encounter serves as something of a warm-up for the Springboks with four Tests to come against New Zealand as the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series launches, a mouthwatering new venture. Rassie Erasmus and his side dare not overlook a Pumas team with the ability to exploit even the very best – though the hosts are heavily depleted by injury and unavailability.
It makes the task tall for Felipe Contepomi’s side, though they will count on fervent home support as ever. Back in the Springboks ranks are Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Erasmus is again able to examine his depth – which will be required as the world champions look to keep their outstanding recent record intact over the next six weeks.
Follow all of the latest from the international clash with our live blog below:
Argentina player given four-match ban for intimidating referee after England defeat
Back, then, to today’s fare, and Argentina are without their first-choice fly half: Tomas Albornoz serves the first of a four-match suspension levied this week after intimidating Angus Gardner following the narrow defeat to England.
All Blacks battle past Stormers
And here is how New Zealand got underway, with a scrappy, spirited encounter against the Stormers eventually settled by a late surge.
Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry schedule, kick-off times and how to watch South Africa vs New Zealand
Here’s the full itinerary ahead for the Springboks and All Blacks, who kicked off their tour in Cape Town last night.
The deeper significance behind South Africa and New Zealand’s Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series
It’s set to be a busy six weeks as South Africa and New Zealand collide in a proper tour for the first time in 30 years. There’s plenty going on with the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series, which is laden with history and dripping in narrative around the game’s future:
Argentina vs South Africa
Argentina and South Africa collide as a busy period of Test action continues with an intriguing encounter in Buenos Aires. This fixture is very much not the main event of the Springboks’ summer but meetings between these two have tended to deliver of late, and though the hosts are depleted, an entertaining affair could be in store.
Kick off is at 8pm BST.
