Boks make tactical about-turn for must-win RWC warm-up game
Twice world champions South Africa hope a tactical U-turn and the recalling of "bone collector" Willem Alberts will prevent a second humiliating defeat at the hands of Argentina when the teams meet in a Rugby World Cup warm-up game this weekend.
Twice world champions South Africa hope a tactical U-turn and recalling "bone collector" Willem Alberts will prevent a second humiliating defeat in rapid succession at the hands of Argentina.
After taking 7,941 days to achieve a first-ever test victory over the Springboks, the Pumas have home advantage in Buenos Aires as they seek to repeat the feat just seven days later.
Argentina scored a stunning 37-25 win in Durban last Saturday - the first against South Africa in 20 attempts spanning 23 years, and their first Rugby Championship away win since their 2012 debut.
A sixth defeat in eight tests started a nightmare period for South Africa coach Heyneke Meyer, who apologised to the nation and came under media and trade union fire for not picking enough black players.
We lacked a ball-carrying loose forward in Durban owing to injuries, used two ball scavengers instead, and were outmuscled [by Argentina]
Meyer denied claims by national labour body COSATU that he was a "racist", then chose a team for Buenos Aires including four black players, one more than he has ever started with previously.