Argentina Names Squad for Rugby Championship with Key Recalls and Fresh Talent

Argentina has announced their 31-man squad for the Rugby Championship in New Zealand, including a first call-up for Efrain Elias and recalling six players. Coach Felipe Contepomi emphasizes the list may change as the tournament progresses. The squad features a mix of experienced players and new talents.

Argentina has unveiled its 31-man squad for the upcoming Rugby Championship in New Zealand, offering a first call-up to Efrain Elias and recalling six players previously absent from the team. Coach Felipe Contepomi named Lucio Cinti, Agustin Creevy, Juan Martin Gonzalez, Tomas Lavanini, Juan Cruz Mallia, and Joel Sclavi as the returning members.

Twenty-year-old Elias, a towering two-meter tall lock forward, recently captained Argentina's team at the World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa. The squad announcement also noted the absence of Centre Jeronimo de la Fuente, who has been left out for personal reasons despite achieving his 80th cap against France earlier this month.

Contepomi expressed that the initial 31-man lineup is not final and could be adjusted as the tournament unfolds. Argentina is set to face the All Blacks in Wellington on August 10 and again in Auckland a week later. The team will then head back home for matches against Australia and South Africa before concluding their fixtures against the World Cup winners in Nelspruit in late September.

(With inputs from agencies.)