Argentina head into autumn series without Pablo Matera after ban

Argentina will be without flanker Pablo Matera for their opening match of the autumn against Italy after he received a suspension for his red card against South Africa in The Rugby Championship.

The former Pumas captain was dismissed by referee Ben O’Keeffe after 56 minutes of the round six clash in this year's Championship for a dangerous clearout of Springbok Vincent Koch.

SANZAAR have since upheld the red card decision, and handed the flanker a two-week suspension, although he will only miss one fixture.

The 31-year-old will miss the encounter at the Stadio Friuli in Udine against the Azzurri, but will be available again from November 10.

Pumas head coach Felipe Contepomi will therefore have one of his talismans for clashes against world number one Ireland and France.

"The player made contact without binding on to another player in the ruck and striking an opponent's head with their shoulder at speed," a statement SANZAAR said.

"These actions are deemed to constitute 'foul play' as per the new directive, thereby warranting a two-week suspension.

"Therefore, the player is suspended up to and including November 10."