Image source: Alamy Stock Photo
Test Rugby
International Rugby Union
South Africa vs Argentina
Estadio José Amalfitani
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Saturday, 8 August 2026
Kick-off is at 21:00
In preparation for the eagerly anticipated Greatest Rivalry Tour against New Zealand later this month, South Africa will look to bank crucial sparring rounds against Argentina in Buenos Aires this weekend as Rassie Erasmus hopes to get his experienced crop of players up to speed.
Several first team players have returned from injury for the test against Argentina, with Erasmus assembling a 26-man squad for the game in South America.
Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu are among the notable returnees for South Africa, along with players such as Lood de Jager, Andre Esterhuizen and Morne van den Berg.
It’s been reported that two separate groups have travelled to Argentina, while recent regulars such as Cheslin Kolbe, Damian Willemse, Jesse Kriel, and Ruan Nortje will join the squad in Johannesburg on Sunday.
Image source: Alamy Stock Photo
However, South Africa will remain without the enigmatic duo of RG Snyman and Kwagga Smith for the 2026 season, owing to long-term ACL injuries. Additionally, scrum powerhouse Ox Nche will be out for the immediate future after sustaining a knee injury during South Africa’s 45-21 win against England on 4 July.
Reflecting on the game against Argentina, Erasmus noted that their opponents will provide a stern warm-up test, particularly after enduring competitive meetings against Los Pumas in the past.
“Argentina are a quality outfit and we know we will be in for a massive challenge in Buenos Aires, so we are preparing for a physical and gruelling battle over there,” Erasmus said.
“They are a well-coached team, who have tested us in the last few years, while they have also been competitive in the Nations Championship, so it will be a good test for us as a team.
“We had a series of productive sessions throughout the week, and all the players know what we expect of them, so everyone understands the importance of building on our season.”
Springbok squad for Argentina test:
Forwards: Lood de Jager, Ben-Jason Dixon, Thomas du Toit, Eben Etzebeth, Johan Grobbelaar, Cameron Hanekom, Siya Kolisi, Elrigh Louw, Wilco Louw, Zachary Porthen, Gerhard Steenekamp, Marco van Staden, Boan Venter, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Cobus Wiese.
Backs: Andre Esterhuizen, Aphelele Fassi, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Ethan Hooker, Quan Horn, Herchel Jantjies, Canan Moodie, Handre Pollard, Cobus Reinach, Morne van den Berg, Edwill van der Merwe.
Greatest Rivalry Tour Fixtures
Tuesday, 11 August
19:00: Stormers vs All Blacks
Saturday, 15 August
19:10: Sharks vs All Blacks
Saturday, 22 August
17:10: Springboks vs All Bkacks
Tuesday, 25 August
19:10: Lions vs All Blacks
Saturday, 29 August
16:10: Springboks vs All Blacks
Saturday, 5 September
17:10: Springboks vs All Blacks
Saturday, 12 September
23:00: Springboks vs All Blacks
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