Springboks to start defence of Rugby Championship against Pumas in Gqeberha
The Springboks will start the defence of their Rugby Championship title against Argentina in Gqeberha.
It will be the first time the Boks return to the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium since 2018.
The two Tests against Los Pumas will be played on consecutive weekends straight after the conclusion after the Lions Series.
They are scheduled for 14 and 21 August.
“We are very grateful to Argentina for having agreed to play their home match against the Boks in the Castle Lager Rugby Championship here in South Africa,” said Jurie Roux, CEO of SA Rugby.
“Unfortunately, there is little prospect that spectators will be allowed to attend matches, but we are pleased to be returning to the Eastern Cape for these important Tests.
“They mark our return to the Castle Lager Rugby Championship, and we’re excited to resume competition with Argentina, Australia and New Zealand after missing out in 2020, when we were due to defend the title.”
Argentina’s last visit was in 2017, when the Boks scored four tries in a comprehensive 37-15 win.
“Because of all the health and safety and logistical considerations that come with Covid-19 we decided to minimise the risks and reduce the logistical challenges by playing both Tests in one city and venue,” said Roux.
