Veteran Agustin Creevy has had his wish granted regarding a Test level recall as new Argentina coach Michael Cheika has named the 89-cap hooker in a 33-man squad for the upcoming home series versus Scotland. The 37-year-old, who last represented his country at the 2019 World Cup in Japan, had never given up hope of getting another look-in and he has now earned selection with Cheika succeeding Mario Ledesma as boss.
It was October 2021 when Creevy sent Ledesma a message via RugbyPass when asked if was now officially retired from the international scene. “No, no, no, I would like to play but at the moment the coaches have other priorities. I don’t know. You need to ask them.”
Frech from a stellar season at London Irish where he scored 14 tries in 21 Gallagher Premiership appearances and another four tries in four Challenge Cup games, Cheika has now summoned Creevy to Argentina for the three-match July series versus the touring Scots.
“I’m very satisfied with our first squad for the Los Pumas season,” said Cheika after naming a squad containing two uncapped players, Velez Bazan and Ignacio Ruiz. “There was great competition for each of the positions and in our discussions about each player selection, we have taken into account both the series of matches with Scotland and the long-term plans towards the 2023 World Cup.
“With this goal in mind, the designation we made of players to put together the Argentina XV squad for the tour of Europe is also very important for us. All this will give us the opportunity to see the 60 best players in Argentina playing at a high level. What is also valuable for everyone is that we will be able to see the Los Pumas jersey again on Argentine grounds after almost three years.
