Argentina reshuffle backs and forwards ahead of Australia test

The Pumas fell 27-21 in San Salvador last week, conceding two early tries that proved decisive. In response, head coach Contepomi has announced a reshuffle ahead of the forthcoming test against Australia.

The changes see back Santiago Carreras moving from fly‑half back to fullback, while Geronimo Prisciantelli is omitted from the 23‑man squad and Nicolas Roger assumes the play‑making duties at number ten.

In the pack, the lock pairing of Efrain Elias and Franco Molina replaces the bench‑bound Tomas Lavanini. Veteran Guido Petti shifts to flanker, taking the spot of the dropped Benjamin Grondona. At prop, Pedro Delgado starts at tighthead opposite loosehead Boris Wenger, with Francisco Moreno moving to the bench. The matchday 23 also includes potential debutants Facundo Cardozo and Mateo Soler.

The backline retains its core, featuring Rodrigo Isgro, Lucio Cinti, Faustino Sanchez Valarolo, Ignacio Mendy, Simon Benitez Cruz, Joaquin Moro, Pablo Matera (captain), and Ignacio Ruiz. Replacements such as Leonel Oviedo, Mayco Vivas, Juan Martin Scelzo and Gaonzalo Bertranou remain on standby.

The revamped lineup will take the field in the Brisbane test on the scheduled date. If the adjustments hold, Argentina could tighten its defence and add more variety to its attack, crucial against a high‑scoring Australian side. The two uncapped bench players may also earn their first caps if injuries arise.