Los Pumas boosted by returning Top 14 stars for All Blacks bout

(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Argentina Names Squad to Face New Zealand in Round One of Rugby Championship

Córdoba, August 2025 – Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi has unveiled his starting XV and bench for the opening round of the 2024 Rugby Championship, as Los Pumas prepare to host New Zealand in Córdoba.

The Pumas will look to build on last year’s memorable win over the All Blacks in Wellington, with eight personnel changes from that encounter.

Key Returns and Squad Highlights

• Santiago Chocobares, Bautista Delguy, Marcos Kremer, and Juan Cruz Mallía return to the squad after being rested in the July window.

• Pedro Delgado earns his second start at tighthead prop alongside captain Julian Montoya and Mayco Vivas.

• The second row features Franco Molina and Pedro Rubiolo, with a strong back row of Pablo Matera, Marcos Kremer, and Joaquín Oviedo.

Exciting Backline Options

In-form halves Gonzalo García and Tomás Albornoz will direct play, supported by midfielders Chocobares and Lucio Cinti. The Pumas’ wide options include Bautista Delguy, Rodrigo Isgró, and Juan Cruz Mallía, offering pace and attacking flair.

Experienced Bench

Argentina’s replacements bring a combined 317 Test caps, giving them a significant edge in experience over the All Blacks’ bench.

Los Pumas Starting XV vs New Zealand

1. Mayco Vivas (31 caps)

2. Julián Montoya (C) (108 caps)

3. Pedro Delgado (4 caps)

4. Franco Molina (12 caps)

5. Pedro Rubiolo (23 caps)

6. Pablo Matera (VC) (112 caps)

7. Marcos Kremer (73 caps)

8. Joaquín Oviedo (13 caps)

9. Gonzalo García (11 caps)

10. Tomás Albornoz (17 caps)

11. Bautista Delguy (33 caps)

12. Santiago Chocobares (27 caps)

13. Lucio Cinti (34 caps)

14. Rodrigo Isgró (9 caps)

15. Juan Cruz Mallía (VC) (42 caps)

Replacements: Ignacio Ruiz, Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro, Joel Sclavi, Guido Petti, Juan Martín González, Simón Benítez Cruz, Santiago Carreras, Justo Piccardo

Looking Ahead

Los Pumas will aim to start the 2024 Rugby Championship on a high note, combining experienced leaders with young talent to challenge the mighty All Blacks on home soil.