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Ian Foster on what he expects from Cheika-coached Pumas
By Ben Smith
All Blacks head coach Ian Foster is expecting a different Argentinian side under Michael Cheika to the one they faced last year.
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After a historic first ever victory in 2020 over the All Blacks, the Pumas slumped to 39-0 and 36-13 defeats in 2021.
The toll on the Los Pumas last year, who were asked to play with little preparation time and travel extensively, led to head coach Mario Ledesma stepping down from the role.
That paved the way for former Wallaby coach to take the reins and reshape the way Argentina plays.
“Well, he’s led them for more than just this year, so it’s similar stuff,” Foster said of Cheika.
“It’s probably the Felipe Contemponi influence, the David Kidwell influence, there has definitely been some changes in both their attack and defence.”
Ex-Pumas flyhalf Contemponi has brought vast experience from Europe to the side, having played and coached at the premier Irish club Leinster.
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Former Kiwi rugby league enforcer David Kidwell has also brought a unique style to the Pumas, introducing concepts from the NRL to build an aggressive defence.
They have already proven to be more competitive and an improved outfit than last year, leading the Wallabies 26-18 at halftime in the first test before storming home 48-17 in the second.
“Clearly, for those that have watched their last two games, they are playing an expansive, fast game with that typical Argentinian combativeness at the breakdown,” Foster said.
“Those things I don’t think will change, but I think they are playing with a bit more ambition.
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“I was pretty impressed with what they delivered in their last test. I’m sure they are going to be coming here with a no fear approach to the game and give it everything they’ve got.”
Nika Amashukeli will take the whistle for the fixture, with young Georgian having his first All Blacks test.
Both captains will be older than the 27-year-old referee who made a name for himself in the first test between Wales and South Africa earlier in July.
“He’s probably unknown to you, but not unknown to us,” Foster said.
“Up and coming referee, and really well regarded by World Rugby.
“He’s come through a different channel through the Georgian system, quite a strong ref.
“Whenever he blows the whistle he really believes in it. I think we saw that in the Wales South Africa game that reffed.
“I’m sure it is a big step for him to come and ref over here but it is part of World Rugby’s goal to grow some young referees.”
