Argentina get a boost from the return of their 'wizard'

Argentina’s hopes of causing a similar upset to the one they pulled off in Durban in 2015 got a welcome boost with the news this week that flyhalf Tomas Albornoz has joined the squad and is likely to start in Durban against the Boks.

Albanoz - nicknamed “El Mago Nuevo” (the new wizard) - has been a massive part of why Felipe Contepomi’s side is so highly regarded and the Benetton flyhalf is no stranger to SA teams.

His ability to keep the points ticking over with his boot is one thing, but his ability to get his backline going and threading holes into the opposition is something that makes him exceptionally good.

He was the catalyst when Los Pumas shocked the British and Irish Lions in Dublin earlier this year and was the man of the match in the one-point win over the Boks last year in Argentina. While many only remember Manie Libbok’s missed penalty at the end, a crucial penalty 11 minutes from time from Albornoz gave Argentina the lead when they needed it.

Even in Nelspruit last season, when the Boks romped to the Rugby Championship title, it was Albornoz who was the best player on a losing side, and is always dangerous.

The flyhalf was having a good season thus far, but then dislocated a finger 11 minutes into the game against New Zealand in Buenos Aires and hasn’t played since. His return to the side is a massive boost, as Contepomi can now field two attacking options - with Santiago Carreras also a threat and will be in the 23.

On Monday the Boks said they expected Albornoz to start the game and are very wary of the threat that he poses.

Asked about Argentina’s flyhalves, attack coach Tony Brown was full of praise.

“They're both very good players, both attacking, mindset. Albornoz was probably the breakthrough player of the year last year, especially in the Rugby Championship. I think he's got a huge future,” Brown said.

“For Argentina, just his quality of decision-making has been pretty impressive for a young guy. I know he's huge for Argentina and I know that they'll rush him back if he's available.

“So we're expecting him to play.”

Praise from the opposition is often regarded rather highly and it is clear the Springboks see him as a threat.

With both sides on equal points and all four sides in the Championship still with a chance of claiming the title, a bonus point would help either side, but for Brown, the object is to get the win first or nothing else matters.

“Obviously, a bonus point would be good, but we're obviously focusing on how we beat Argentina. We've got to perform really well to get the result. If things go exceptionally well, yeah, you might sneak a bonus point,” Brown added.

“Our focus is just getting across the line, making sure we perform well so we get a win against Argentina.”

The Boks will name their side on Tuesday and Argentina will name their side on Thursday.