Winger Mark Telea Returns as All Blacks Face Argentina in Rugby World Cup Semifinal

In a thrilling turn of events, winger Mark Telea is set to make his comeback for the New Zealand side in their highly anticipated Rugby World Cup semifinal clash against Argentina. The 26-year-old was temporarily dropped from the team after breaching team protocol but has been given another chance to prove himself on the field.

New Zealand’s head coach, Ian Foster, has made two changes to his starting XV for this crucial match. Alongside Telea’s return, Sam Whitelock will be replacing Brodie Retallick in the second row.

The Argentinean team also makes a single change with Gonzalo Bertranou stepping in as scrum-half instead of Tomas Cubelli.

This matchup holds significant importance for both teams, as it offers an opportunity for redemption and advancement towards claiming the prestigious title of world champions.

Road to Redemption

The New Zealand squad includes 12 players who experienced heartbreak during their defeat by England in the semi-finals of the 2019 Rugby World Cup held in Japan. This time around, they are determined not to let history repeat itself and have high hopes pinned on their revamped lineup.

Mark Telea played a pivotal role during New Zealand’s opening game against France when he scored twice. He will now take Leicester Fainga’anuku’s place after Fainga’anuku impressed with a try against Ireland.

A Chance at Redemption

“That’s the team we think best for this week,” stated Foster confidently about his selection choices. “He [Telea] has done his time. He made a mistake and accepted what happened, but you don’t linger in that space. We have faith in him and believe he is in a good place to play this game.”

Argentina, on the other hand, boasts seven players from their 2015 semi-final squad, including captain Julian Montoya and replacement fly-half Nicolas Sanchez.

The victor of this semifinal clash will go on to face either England or South Africa in the final match at the Stade de France on Saturday, October 28th.