Title-chasing Boks brace for bruising battle against Pumas

Creevy returns ahead of SA test

SALTA, Argentina, Aug 8, (RTRS): South Africa’s quest for a first Rugby Championship title since 2009 is secondary to the bigger picture of the looming World Cup in Japan, but would provide a boost in confidence as they prepare to clash with Argentina in Salta on Saturday.

A bonus-point victory would secure the trophy in the shortened three-game season, while a four-point haul could also be enough based on what happens in the earlier fixture between Australia and New Zealand in Perth.

But for coach Rassie Erasmus, his focus will be on the performance of his players and how they implement his game-plan with just three matches remaining before the World Cup opener against New Zealand in Yokohama on Sept 21.

He has given a window into his thinking, keeping largely the same side that played in the 16-16 draw with the All Blacks, bar an all-new front-row to counter the considerable shove of the Argentine pack.

That suggests a territory game and speed at the breakdown against a home side that have won three of the Boks’ last five visits to Argentina, including a handsome 32-19 victory in Mendoza last year. In this July 27, 2019 file photo, Argentina’s Ramiro Herrera in action during the Rugby Championship match between Australia and Argentina in Brisbane, Australia. (AP)