The second Test match between Kiss and the Pumas concluded on Saturday, September 21, 2026, with a 28-28 draw. Kiss's try scorers included Harry Wilson, Max Jorgensen, Fraser McReight, and a penalty try in the 69th minute. The Pumas responded with two tries by Pablo Matera, and one try each by Ignacio Mendy and Ignacio Ruiz. This draw resulted in the series being 1-0 in favor of Kiss, who had won the first Test 27-21.
The match saw two players from the Pumas, Lucio Cinti and Santiago Carreras, being sent to the sin-bin just a minute apart, leaving their team with 13 men on the field. This incident occurred during a crucial phase of the game and had a significant impact on the match. The draw was a fair result, considering the number of tries scored by both teams and the yellow cards given.
According to World Rugby Regulation 15.1.2, teams are required to announce their 15 starters and up to eight replacements 48 hours before an International Match. For Kiss's next Test against the Springboks on September 27, 2026, the list of players will be announced on Friday, not on the usual Thursday. This regulation is in place to ensure transparency and give teams sufficient time to prepare.
The 23-man squad list announced by Kiss included Josh Nasser at hooker and Carter Gordon as cover for the number 10 position. The Pumas' replacements were seen as more useful by match reports, especially when their team was reduced to 13 men. Jeremy Williams and Franco Molina were among the replacements who made an impact when they came on.
The match saw four tries scored by each team, but this did not necessarily imply that a bonus point was awarded. The two-match series had already been won by Kiss after the first Test, and the draw meant that no team lost or gained a losing bonus. Researchers have studied the impact of bonus points on match outcomes, but this particular series did not involve bonus points.
Analyzing a team's 23-man squad list can provide valuable insights into their strategy and player selection. A second hooker among the replacements can indicate who can throw at the lineout. In Kiss's case, Ben Donaldson was listed at number 10, Billy Pollard was the likely lineout thrower, and Josh Nasser was among the replacements.
The announced 23-man squad list can reveal some information about a team's strategy, but it also has its limitations. It cannot predict the exact score, the minute when the first replacement goes on, or why a regular player is missing. A teamsheet can only show what the sheet itself shows, and coaches or team statements are needed to clarify certain decisions.
Key points
- The second Test match between Kiss and the Pumas ended in a 28-28 draw.
- The draw resulted in the series being 1-0 in favor of Kiss.
- The 23-man squad list announced by Kiss provided insights into their strategy and player selection.
