Argentina make six changes as Elizalde debuts at full-back
Julian Montoya is part of Argentina's front row
©Steve Haag
Argentina have made six changes to their starting lineup for the highly anticipated Test against England in La Plata on Saturday.
Among the most notable adjustments is the debut of Benjamin Elizalde, who will start at full-back in a reshaped backline and forward pack.
Elizalde, a promising backline talent, has been handed his first international cap and will wear the No. 15 jersey. His inclusion pushes Santiago Carreras from full-back to fly-half, forming a new half-back partnership with returning No. 9 Gonzalo Bertranou.
Santiago Cordero returns to the left wing while Rodrigo Isgro retains his spot on the right, creating a dynamic back-three trio.
While there are significant shifts in the back three and halves, Argentina's midfield remains untouched. Justo Piccardo and Lucio Cinti, both praised for their composure in the Lions clash, continue their role in the centre pairing.
The forward pack also sees three changes. Veteran No. 8 Facundo Isa returns to the side for the first time in over a year. He joins Pablo Matera and Juan Martín González in a back row known for its breakdown dominance and defensive discipline.
In the second row, Lucas Paulos comes in to partner Pedro Rubiolo, while the front row features Mayco Vivas, skipper Julián Montoya, and Pedro Delgado, who replaces Joel Sclavi.
The replacements bench includes fly-half Nicolás Roger, who is in line for a debut if brought on. Other bench players include Bautista Bernasconi, Thomas Gallo, and Santiago Grondona, offering a mix of energy and experience as impact options.
Argentina XV: 15-Benjamin Elizalde, 14-Rodrigo Isgro, 13-Lucio Cinti, 12-Justo Piccardo, 11-Santiago Cordero, 10-Santiago Carreras, 9-Gonzalo Bertranou, 8-Facundo Isa, 7-Juan Martin Gonzalez, 6-Pablo Matera, 5-Pedro Rubiolo, 4-Lucas Paulos, 3-Pedro Delgado, 2-Julian Montoya , 1-Mayco Vivas
Reserves: 16-Bautista Bernasconi, 17-Thomas Gallo, 18-Francisco Coria Marchetti, 19-Santiago Grondona, 20-Joaquin Moro, 21-Simon Benitez Cruz, 22-Nicolas Roger, 23-Matias Moroni.
