The Springboks had their first full team training in Buenos Aires on Monday in the build-up to the all-important Test against the Pumas. The players arrived in two batches after spending a week of team building and preparation in New Zealand.

The Springboks top the standings in the series following a win over the Wallabies and a 16-16 draw to the All Blacks in Wellington. Should the Wallabies manage an unlikely win over the All Blacks in Perth, South Africa require just a win in order to be crowned as the Rugby Championship champions.

The Pumas in their turn will be targeting a first win after losing to both the All Blacks and Wallabies.

The Boks are expected to name their strongest available team for the Test, as they continue to build their momentum heading into the Rugby World Cup which starts in Japan next month.

What the Springboks are well aware of is the fact that they will be up for a massive battle, especially upfront.

Along with the notoriously hostile and passionate crowd, another heated battle is expected.

The Springbok hooker, Bongi Mbonambi, says that they are well aware of how difficult it is to play in Salta.

“It’s going to be a big challenge playing against Argentina on their home field and with home crowd advantage. It’s always tough playing against them and they will have their tails up.

“They have been together since the Super Rugby, and now again in the internationals.

“For us, it is going to be a maul and a scrum battle. They have quite good loose-forwards and they will have Agustín Creevy there as their hooker. It’s going to be a forwards battle and we are looking forward to the challenge.

“We have travelled to Salta quite a lot and for me personally it will be my second time there.

“The crowd is very passionate about their rugby and rugby is a growing sport here in Argentina. It’s nice to see that it is growing here as there is passion.

“We know that we are going to be facing a hostile crowd, but they love the sport, so we are looking forward to it.”

Saturday evening's Test between Argentina and the Springboks in Salta kicks off at 21:40.