Flyhalf Tomás Albornoz is back in contention for⁤ Argentina’s remaining Rugby Championship fixtures against South Africa, teh Argentine rugby Union announced. His return provides a meaningful boost as⁣ the ⁢Pumas chase a historic first southern Hemisphere Championship title.

Injury Recovery and ‍Squad Changes

Albornoz,27,had been⁤ sidelined after suffering ⁤a finger dislocation during‍ Argentina’s landmark 29-23 victory over New Zealand in Buenos aires on August⁣ 23,2024 – a first-ever home win against the All‍ Blacks. Santiago Carreras successfully filled⁣ the⁤ flyhalf role in his absence. ⁣ The squad has⁣ seen further adjustments with hooker Leonel Oviedo included ⁣for the South Africa tour, while Ignacio Calles will miss the trip due to injury. Nicolás Roger has been dropped from⁢ the squad to⁤ accommodate Albornoz’s return.

Championship Race Heats Up

Argentina’s recent form ‍has been impressive, rebounding from a narrow 28-24 ⁤loss to Australia in Townsville on September 6, 2024, with a ⁣28-26 win in⁤ Sydney last weekend. With all four teams in the Rugby Championship currently holding two wins and two losses, the championship outcome will be determined by bonus points, creating a tense ⁤finish to the competition.

Upcoming Fixtures and “Home” ⁤Advantage

The Pumas face a challenging schedule,first traveling to Durban to face South Africa on September 27,2024. They will then “host” the Springboks‍ at Twickenham Stadium in ⁣London on October 4, 2024, a venue chosen to capitalize ⁤on ⁤a significant Argentine fanbase in the United Kingdom.

Albornoz’s Club Future

Adding another layer to Albornoz’s story, reports from ⁢the French newspaper Midi Olympique indicate he will be joining french Top 14 ‍club Toulon on a two-year contract following the conclusion of the Rugby ⁣Championship.