Eduardo Bello to Undergo Knee Surgery Amid Argentina Rugby Squad Changes

Argentina prop forward Eduardo Bello will have knee surgery after injuring his anterior cruciate ligament in a match against Australia. Bello's absence from the squad for the upcoming Rugby Championship game against South Africa has prompted coach Felipe Contepomi to call up replacements. Other players returning from injuries include Matias Moroni and Pedro Rubiolo.

Argentina prop forward Eduardo Bello will undergo knee surgery after suffering an injury last weekend, according to the Argentine rugby union. Bello tore his anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during Argentina's victory over Australia in Santa Fe on Saturday, resulting in a lengthy recovery period and exclusion from the squad for the upcoming Rugby Championship match against South Africa on September 21 in Santiago del Estero.

In response, Argentina's coach Felipe Contepomi has added two props, Lucio Sordoni and Ignacio Calles, to the squad. Sordoni, who recently left Glasgow Warriors for Racing 92 in France, and Calles, who returned to action for Pau after an Achilles tendon injury, will serve as cover. Matias Moroni, a veteran winger, and lock Pedro Rubiolo are also returning from injuries, while scrumhalf Lautaro Bazan Velez is fit to play after a muscle strain.

Argentina remains the only team capable of overtaking South Africa in the Rugby Championship standings. However, they must secure a win in Santiago del Estero to maintain their title hopes. The team will meet South Africa again in Nelspruit on September 28, with the squad for that match to be announced after this Saturday's home test.

(With inputs from agencies.)