Pumas legend: Rodrigo Roncero
Veteran Pumas prop Rodrigo Roncero is hoping to end his long Test career with a victorious farewell in Saturday's clash with injury-hit Australia in Rosario.
35-year-old Roncero has announced he will retire after the Rugby Championship having been a stalwart in Argentina's side for 14 years.
In a career that has taken him to three Rugby World Cups, including the Pumas' third-place finish in 2007, Roncero has tasted victory over all the Six Nations teams - but to sign off with a win against one of the southern hemisphere giants would be the crowing moment of his 55 Tests.
"I retire content, the Pumas jersey gave me some of the best moments in my life," said Roncero said.
"Looking back, my career has been extremely positive. I played at three World Cups and I managed to play the first Rugby Championship.
"I'm just missing the plum of beating one of the three powers (New Zealand, South Africa and Australia)."
Wallabies coach Robbie Deans knows his inexperienced side face a massive challenge.
"We know that the Pumas will be coming straight at us, and will be looking to profit in the collision in the same way that the Springboks did last week," said Deans.
"We've addressed that, both internally in our discussions, but also with our selection, where we have gone for the players we feel are best suited to that approach."
Comments
PAMPA says...
Gracias Rodrigo por tantos aņos de hazaņas con nuestros Pumas, un enorme abrazo....
Posted 19:55 06th October 2012
bloemboy says...
Giant in every sense of the word. Its been a pleasure watching him play.
Posted 12:51 06th October 2012
melkdave says...
You really have to take your hat off to R.Roncero a true players player,who gives 100%,and a formidable scrummager,forward ,whos scored his fair share of tries and more than his share of tackles,espically this season.A great of the game imo,and an insperation to young props everywhere..He will be missed .
Posted 12:50 06th October 2012
donguiyo says...
"Rorro" rocks! a 70's-like prop adapted to play in today's rugby. An icon, insipiration and fun to watch player.
Posted 10:40 06th October 2012
hellovanite says...
Heart says Pumas, but head say's Wallabies. Injuries aside, in reality Australia should win this. But then again it is in Rosario, will be a caldron of fire for them... Still Oz by 7
Posted 09:18 06th October 2012
Rosbif says...
Legend. Good luck today... .and thanks for all the memories!
Posted 09:16 06th October 2012