Shamed All Black Aaron Cruden could face further punishment after a boozy night out in Auckland saw him miss an airport check-in and the tour to Argentina and South Africa.

It's time to give Argentina a fair crack in the Rugby Championship.

The 30-man squad for the All Blacks Rugby Championship test matches in Argentina and South Africa has been finalised.

Australia's hooker curse struck again with milestone man Tatafu Polota-Nau injured as the Wallabies survived an Argentine comeback for a nerve-wracking victory.

Paul Lewis writes: Rugby's ridiculous laws and the well-meaning but ultimately confusing 'interpretations' ask too much of officials on the field.

Herald rugby scribes Gregor Paul & Patrick McKendry are joined by Radio Sport Nigel Yalden to give their expert opinion and analysis after the All Blacks were victoriuos against a difficult Pumas team in Napier 28-9.

The star of Argentina's valiant Rugby Championship efforts against the Springboks wasn't a player, but a thing.

Pumas captain Aqustin Creevy says they are happy with their preparation heading into the test against the All Blacks, a more experienced mature & experienced side who has confidence not just in their forward pack but also in their backline.

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw knows it will be not just a battle up front for his team but the Pumas have the ability to score some good tries out the back after an impressive performance against the Sprinboks.

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw is expecting a tight test against Argentina in Napier tomorrow, saying his side will have to show patience against an improving team.

Usually, on a Thursday, when the All Blacks are asked specifics about the opposition they are vague and noncommittal.

Pride in the Pumas revolves around their fearless forward work and concerted aggression.

Beauden Barrett will make his first test start in the number 10 jersey for the All Blacks, replacing Aaron Cruden who is still recovering from the chest muscle injury suffered in the Bledisloe Cup test victory two weeks ago.

After the announcement of his team to play against the Pumas in Napier, head coach Steve Hansen knows they'll be a very tough side to play.

Argentina are working to align their mental focus with their renowned physical prowess to compete with the All Blacks on Saturday.

Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe's face said it all afterwards.

In a game of unrelenting physical inquisition where hard minds had to deliver the horsepower, Cane delivered a performance to admire, writes Wynne Gray.

Hooker Andrew Hore returns to All Black action in one of two changes to the side to play Argentina at La Plata on Sunday.

Ewen McKenzie believes confrontational Argentina are the perfect opponents for his besieged Wallabies to face and prove their worth after four straight defeats.

Sir Graham Henry's presence in the Pumas coaching box last night was more a unifying rather than a motivating factor for the All Blacks.

It was a solid display last night but the option taking - across the whole team - wasn't up to scratch.