Thursday Round-Up

Two changes for Pumas: Argentina head coach Daniel Hourcade has made just two changes to his side for this weekend’s impending clash with New Zealand in Napier. Having failed to pick up any wins so far this campaign, despite pushing South Africa close, the Pumas have brought in the experience of Horacio Agulla on the wing, with Lucas Gonzalez Amorisino shifting from the right to left wing in order to accomodate the former Bath man. Elsewhere, there is a shift in positions across the back row, with Leonardo Senatore being recalled to no.8, meaning the experienced duo of Juan Manuel Leguizamon and Juan Martin Fernandze Lobbe are asked to move into jerseys six and seven respectively. Hourcade has also made a number of changes to his replacement bench, four in total, with th elides of Juan Imhoff and Santiago Gonzalez Iglesias named as back line substitutes, along with the recall of Luca Paz and Rodrigo Baez to the bench. The Pumas take on the World Champions in Napier on Saturday, where Pascal Gauzere will be the man in the middle.

Big Bad Ben: Giant Chiefs prop forward Ben Tameifuna has been handed a five week suspension from the game, after being found guilty of shoving referee Glen Jackson. The incident, which the 130kg tight head has since been found guilty of, occurred during Waikato’s 22-16 ITM Cup victory over North Harbour. 23 year old Tameifuna can clearly be seen pushing former professional player Jackson to the ground as he looks to defend his try line. Having considered all the evidence available to them, including a post match apology from Tameifuna, the disciplinary committee found his actions inexcusable and have banned the player up to and including October 5th. Judicial Officer Chris Morris handed down the suspension, having taken into account similar incidents which have occurred overseas.

Ryan Sheady