Pumas to prowl in Churchill Cup

Argentina will complete a six-nation Barclays Churchill Cup line-up in North America this June.

Argentina will complete a six-nation Barclays Churchill Cup line-up in North America this June.

A Pumas XV will join Canada, USA, England Saxons, Ireland A and Scotland A at the tournament between June 7 and 21.

Argentina will play Scotland A in Kingston, Ontario on Wednesday June 11, Canada in Toronto on Saturday June 14 before heading to Chicago for the finals on June 21.

The South Americans last appeared in the Churchill Cup back in 2005 and new senior coach Santiago Phelan believes the tournament has a vital role in the development of Argentina – who finished third in Rugby World Cup 2007 – as a global force.

“It is very important for us to be part of this tournament,” said Phelan.

“It gives us the opportunity to see many young players on their first steps in senior international rugby. This tournament gives experience to the players and helps us to increase our base of internationals.

“Unlike in other years, the players that will take part in the Churchill Cup will be part of the same training program for the June test window as the Pumas.”

Meanwhile, Churchill Cup Tournament Director Terry Burwell added: “Argentina showed during the Rugby World Cup that they are rightly ranked third in the world.

“Having them participate in the Barclays Churchill Cup will add to the high quality of the tournament and provide rugby fans in North America with truly international live rugby in four venues across two countries.”

Barclays Churchill Cup schedule:
(All times are local)

Saturday June 7
Twin Elm Stadium, Ottawa
England Saxons v USA (14:00)
Canada v Scotland A (16.30)

Wednesday June 11
Richardson Stadium, Kingston, Ontario
Argentina XV v Scotland A (16.30)
Ireland A v USA (19:00)

Saturday June 14
Fletcher's Field, Markham, Toronto
England Saxons v Ireland A (14:00)
Canada v Argentina XV (16:30)

Saturday June 21
Toyota Park, Bridgeview, Chicago
Barclays Churchill Cup Finals – Cup, Plate, Bowl (11.30/14:00/16:30)