Rugby Championship LIVE updates: Argentina v Australia

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Battle at the foot of the Andes

Looks like a chilly afternoon in Mendoza, in Argentina’s wine country at the foot of the majestic Andes.

Coach Dave Rennie is wearing his Wallabies jumper under his number ones, a rare sartorial concession from the tough New Zealand coach.

No news yet on our correspondent, Iain Payten’s wardrobe selections, but I’ll keep you posted. He’ll be safe behind the glass in the media box, in any case, fuelling up on empanadas before kick-off.

Hooper’s absence

There are a couple of changes to this Wallabies line up from the England series but nothing as significant as the absence of Australia’s long-standing skipper, Michael Hooper.

Fraser McReight has stepped up to fill the openside flanker’s shoes – an opportunity he might have waited another two years for had it not been for Hooper’s struggles.

The 121-Test No.7 was a shock withdrawal from the series this week, admitting his mindset struggle and asking to fly home to his wife and infant son. Here’s Iain Payten’s coverage of that bombshell.

Early bird special

Good morning to the dedicated and the parents of small children, we’re about 10 minutes from kick-off in Mendoza for the Wallabies’ first Test against Argentina.

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