Albornoz returns in Los Pumas squad update for South Africa series

Some changes in Los Pumas camp will see dynamic playmaker Tomás Albornoz return for Argentina in the team’s upcoming two-Test series against South Africa.

The first-choice fly-half had been instrumental in a famous win over the British & Irish Lions to begin his side’s 2025 international campaign, contributing big numbers on the scoreboard with his ball-running, game management and goal-kicking. He looked to repeat those heroics in Buenos Aires against the All Blacks, but was replaced after just 13 minutes due to a dislocated finger.

While his team went on to claim a historic win over the All Blacks, their first such result on home soil, Albornoz was ruled out for the ensuing two-Test series in Australia against the Wallabies. During that period, Test rookie Nicolas Roger joined the squad as injury cover, and Santiago Carreras took on the starting No. 10 duties.

The Pumas have left Australia with another even split of results, winning one and losing one, seeing them join their three competitors with the same record, albeit at the bottom of the Rugby Championship table due to a lack of bonus points.

The return of Albornoz means Roger will not fly to Durban for round five of the tournament, and neither will prop Ignacio Calles, who has been ruled out due to injury. The prop has been replaced in the touring party by Leonel Oviedo.