Pumas call up Gaitan for World Cup

The Argentine Rugby Union have officially confirmed that Martin Gaitan will replace Lisandro Arbizu in the squad for next month’s World Cup.

Pumas captain Arbizu ruptured the ligaments of his right knee in Argentina’s 73-0 friendly win over Tucuman Province on Friday.

The Begles Bordeaux centre, a veteran of three Webb-Ellis Cup campaigns, underwent several examinations before doctors confirmed the tragic diagnosis.

“He will undergo surgery next week and will need six months to recover,” said Pumas doctor Mario Larrain.

Argentina coach Marcelo Loffreda called up Biarritz centre Gaitan to replace the skipper when he heard the news.

Gaitan will travel from France to Argentina and should join his team-mates on Thursday.

In the Puma’s starting line-up, Arbizu’s place may be taken by Felipe Contepomi, with Gonzalo Quesada coming in as fly half.

Agustin Pichot or Gonzalo Longo will take over as team captain for the World Cup.