Rugby Championship: Team Of The Week

The penultimate round of the Rugby Championship produced two thrilling matches. Bet Central brings you the best XV.

15: Juan Cruz Mallia (Argentina)

Juan Cruz Mallia is in sensational form at the moment; he is the best fullback in the competition, and Emiliano Boffelli will struggle to regain the No. 15 jersey from the Toulouse man. Will Jordan also had a strong showing at 15.

Honourable mention: Will Jordan (New Zealand)

14: Caleb Clarke (New Zealand)

In a backline lacking physicality in the midfield, Caleb Clarke’s runs down the middle made huge inroads for the All Blacks. The Blues winger looks back to his best. Bautista Delguy offers little flash, but superb. fundamentals.

Honourable mention: Bautista Delguy (Argentina)

13: Lucio Cinti (Argentina)

Lucio Cinti is another player in fine form, arguably the best No. 13 in the competition. Known for his attacking prowess, he also showcased strong defensive work against the Boks. Rieko Ioane performed well against the Wallabies.

Honourable mention: Rieko Ioane (New Zealand)

12: Santiago Chocobares (Argentina)

The Toulouse center brings dynamism to the Los Pumas attack. Santiago Chocobares kept the Boks guessing with his silky ball skills and physicality in midfield. Jordie Barrett had a good contest with Hunter Paisami.

Honourable mention: Jordie Barrett (New Zealand)

11: Matteo Carreras (Argentina)

Slippery and strong in contact, Matteo Carreras is a nightmare to defend and was a handful for the Springboks once again. Marika Koroibete always gives his best for the Wallabies.

Honourable mention: Marika Koroibete (Australia)

10: Tomas Albornoz (Argentina) – Player of the Week

Santiago Carreras is a phenomenal player, but Tomas Albornoz has brought game management skills that have made Los Pumas a significantly better side. The flyhalf is playing with wonderful confidence. Damian McKenzie also had a brilliant game for the All Blacks.

Honourable mention: Damian McKenzie (New Zealand)

9: Cortez Ratima (New Zealand)

After several promising cameos, Cortez Ratima had his best game in the black jersey against the Wallabies in Bledisloe 1. He gave the All-Blacks direction, particularly in the first half. Nic White looked solid for the Wallabies upon his return to the starting XV.

Honourable mention: Nic White (Australia)

8: Joaquin Oviedo (Argentina)

Joaquin Oviedo’s work for Los Pumas has been impressive, whether starting or coming off the bench. His crucial play, like keeping the ball in field for Joel Sclavi’s try, was instrumental in their fightback. Ardie Savea, ever reliable, also shone with a try against the Wallabies, reaching a significant milestone.

Honourable mention: Ardie Savea (New Zealand)

7: Pablo Matera (Argentina)

Anyone who watched Fraser McReight’s standout performance against the All Blacks would have been impressed, but Pablo Matera was a wrecking ball for the Pumas, doing everything he could to push them over the line.

Honourable mention: Fraser McReight (Australia)

6: Wallace Sititi (New Zealand)

Wallace Sititi is proving he belongs at the Test level. While there was much hype around Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, New Zealand should be equally excited about Sititi’s future. He was outstanding against Australia. Marcos Kremer also put in another brilliant performance.

Honourable mention: Marcos Kremer (Argentina)

5: Tupou Vaa’i (New Zealand)

Tupou Vaa’i continues to establish himself as a Test player in 2024. While not as dynamic as in previous games, he was once again hugely influential for the All Blacks. Jeremy Williams performed admirably for the Wallabies.

Honourable mention: Jeremy Williams (Australia)

4: Pedro Rubiolo (Argentina)

Though he started the game at No. 5, Pedro Rubiolo’s performance was too good to leave out. He was relentless, giving the Springboks a taste of their own medicine with his physicality. Scott Barrett also had a strong game for the All Blacks.

Honourable mention: Scott Barrett (New Zealand)

3: Tyrel Lomax (New Zealand)

There was little to separate Tyrel Lomax and Joel Sclavi, as both were brilliant in their respective games, showing huge scrum presence and skill around the park. The only difference is that Lomax achieved his success away from home.

Honourable mention: Joel Sclavi (Argentina)

2: Codie Taylor (New Zealand)

The All Blacks hooker looks like a player reborn. After a season or two of slowing down, Codie Taylor is currently playing brilliantly and was exceptional once again. Julian Montoya was inspirational for Los Pumas.

Honourable mention: Julian Montoya (Argentina)

1: Ox Nche (South Africa)

A standout performer in an otherwise average Springbok showing, Ox Nche was magnificent in all aspects of play. He carried with real vigor and showed why he is one of the best props in the world. Thomas Gallo is a player finding his form again.

Honourable mention: Thomas Gallo (Argentina)