Juan Cruz Mallia faces Nations Championship absence

Argentina back Juan Cruz Mallía is expected to miss the remainder of the Nations Championship after suffering a right-knee sprain during Friday's 42–12 defeat to Ireland in Dublin.

Head coach Felipe Contepomi has called up uncapped Tobías Wade as his replacement ahead of the Pumas' upcoming encounter with Italy.

Juan Cruz Mallía Suffers Fresh Knee Injury

The 30-year-old Toulouse back sustained the injury during Argentina's defeat to Ireland on November 6 and was forced to leave the field in the 63rd minute.

Mallía, who can operate in several positions across the backline, had only returned to action in September following a serious injury to the same knee that kept him sidelined for almost a year.

Contepomi has selected 27-year-old Wade, who is yet to make his senior international debut, to replace Mallía in the touring squad.

The Argentina coach has also called up hookers Bautista Bernasconi and Facundo Bosch as cover for captain Julián Montoya, whose availability remains uncertain while he undergoes concussion protocols following the Ireland match.

Meanwhile, number eight Facundo Isa has returned to the national setup after being released to represent French club Pau during the previous weekend.

Argentina will face Italy at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Genoa on Saturday, November 14, looking to respond to their defeat against Ireland.

The Pumas will then travel to France for their next Nations Championship fixture at the Stade de France on November 21.

Contepomi's side will conclude their campaign with a standings match at Twickenham during the competition's Finals Weekend, scheduled for November 27–29.