Ledesma: Matera is real thing
PABLO MATERA is an impressive specimen — 6ft 4ins and 17 stone of prime Argentinian beef, one might say.
Thus, it comes as something of a surprise when a man so physically imposing turns out to be so quietly spoken, as well as humble to a fault.
The flanker, who captains his country for the first time when they take on Ireland this evening, has been acknowledged as one of the best in world rugby for some time.
Since winning his first cap at 19 in 2013, Matera has brought a relentless force to the Argentinian backrow, making his presence felt against all opponents (not least Ireland during their infamous World Cup quarter-final defeat in 2015 when Matera was still 22).
And, given his consistent capacity for inspiration over the past five years, Matera’s elevation to the leader’s role at 25 was inevitable. It is no small task taking over from the equally inspirational Agustin Creevy but new head coach Mario Ledesma has no doubts he has got the right man.
‘He is the real thing,’ insisted Ledesma yesterday.
‘He is really authentic. He is true and he tries to have true moments. When you talk to him, he looks you in the eye says what he thinks and then he does what he thinks and that is a really good quality.
‘He brings effort, physicality and he brings sacrifice. He has a lot of qualities as a player and as a person. I think he will be captain for years to come.’
Matera’s English is not as developed as his coach’s but there was still no doubting his sincerity when he spoke of the honour of being asked to lead his country.
‘I always wanted to be in this position and now I have the chance. It’s always special to play for this team and to captain is a dream for me,’ said Matera. ‘Agustin has been captain for the last four or five years and it has been really great for me because I have a really good relationship with him and he is a great support for me. He is always watching my back.’
In many ways, Matera is Argentina’s version of his opposite number today, Peter O’Mahony, with many similarities in terms of style and overall presence. However, Matera acknowledges that O’Mahony and company may be a bit further down the track given the upheaval this year that saw Ledesma take over in the summer.
‘Ireland is a big challenge for us to see where we are now. We have had a lot of changes since last year, a new staff, different players, a different way of working during the week.
‘But we want to keep growing as a team. We are beginning to adapt and we are starting to understand new systems and starting to see some results.
‘It’s always great to play for this team but now, to play for the first time as captain? It’s going to be big.’ No doubting that authenticity.