All Blacks Ready for Rugby Championship Clash with Argentina

Cordoba, Argentina – The All Blacks are set to face Argentina in the opening test of the Rugby Championship this Sunday at the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium. New Zealand coach Scott Robertson named his strongest possible matchday 23 despite missing some players due to injury.

For the first time in 2025, no debutants will take the field for the All Blacks. Scott Barrett returns from a calf injury, partnering with Fabian Holland in the second row. Cortez Ratima will wear the No. 9 jersey as the starting halfback, while Beauden Barrett, back from a hand injury, starts at No. 10.

“We’ve had a great week of training in Buenos Aires and the group is ready to go out and perform,” Robertson said. He emphasized the team’s focus on embracing the challenge, recalling that it’s been 30 years since the All Blacks played in Cordoba.

The All Blacks have historically performed well against Argentina, having never lost to Los Pumas in Argentina. Their last encounter ended with New Zealand winning 41-12 in Mendoza last year. The team’s lineup features notable players like Rieko Ioane and Jordie Barrett among others.

Both teams will look to assert their styles, with the All Blacks aiming to retain their strong record in the Rugby Championship. With the Pumas eager for a competitive showing at home, the match promises to be an exciting opener for the tournament.