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Wales Rugby Faces Argentina Despite Travel Woes

BBC Sport •
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Wales rugby union arrived in San Juan, Argentina, facing significant travel challenges after multiple flights and limited preparation time. The team endured a two-day journey from London Heathrow, crossing four time zones, with only one full training session before their Nations Championship match against Argentina. Captain Dewi Lake dismissed complaints about the logistics, stating that many athletes face similar travel demands.

Despite the arduous journey and the stark contrast to Wales' recent heatwave, the team's mantra is 'no excuses.' The match is set to take place in San Juan, a city known for its wine and a more subdued atmosphere than the football-obsessed capital, Buenos Aires. This venue previously hosted Wales in 2018, a match they won 23-10.

Wales aims for a breakthrough victory against an Argentina side that has historically been a slow starter. Recent encounters have been tough for Wales, including a 2023 World Cup quarter-final loss and a heavy defeat in Cardiff last November. However, Wales has shown recent form with wins over Italy and Fiji. A victory could see them climb into the world's top 10.

Selection news includes Sam Costelow starting at fly-half over Dan Edwards, and Louis Rees-Zammit starting from the bench. Exeter back-rower Kane James is set to make his debut, becoming the 1,224th player to represent Wales at Test level.