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Wainwright travels to first cap scene as Pumas wait

Image source, Huw Evans Picture Agency

Image caption,

Aaron Wainwright has been part of Wales sides that have lost the past two games against the Pumas

By Gareth Griffiths

BBC Sport Wales

Published 2 hours ago

Number eight Aaron Wainwright will go back to where it all began next weekend if he lines up for Wales against Argentina in San Juan.

That is where Wainwright won his first cap when he came on as a replacement in the 23–10 victory in San Juan in June 2018.

Wales return to the same stadium next weekend when they play the Pumas after they have made the 7,000 miles trip and 17 hour flight.

"I won my first cap out there in San Juan, so I'm excited to go back and revisit the experience," said Wainwright.

"My dad made the journey out for my first cap and I spoke to him about potentially coming out again.

"But I don't think he fancies that this time round with how far the travel is!"

Passing on Argentina experience to class of 2026

Image source, Huw Evans Picture Agency

Image caption,

Aaron Wainwright has played in two World Cups since making his international debut against Argentina in June 2018

Wainwright admits he has some vivid match-day memories from eight years ago.

"From what I can remember last time, it was a very hostile and loud crowd, with all the fencing stopping the fans from getting on the pitch," said Wainwright.

"That's something the guys that haven't been before will be able to look forward to.

"The crowd are very noisy and passionate. They were incredibly loud back then as well, so I'm sure it will be another good occasion to be involved in."

Wainwright was just 21 that day but is now one of the most experienced members of the squad having played 68 internationals.

The 28-year-old is one of six survivors from that trip to Argentina alongside wing Josh Adams, hooker Ryan Elias, prop Dillon Lewis, lock Adam Beard and scrum-half Tomos Williams.

"Travel's something we're going to have to face and get around it and that's part of professional sport," said Wainwright.

"We have a great backroom coaching staff and strength and conditioning guys that have everything in place ready for us, so it is just about following that.

"I'm sure that come game time next week. everyone will be ready to go."

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Winning becomes a habit

Figure caption,

Highlights: Fiji 24-39 Wales

Wainwright will be buoyed by winning at the Cardiff City Stadium after being involved with the football club as a junior.

Wainwright never managed to play in an official match at the home of Cardiff City football club, so admits he is content with winning at the venue as a Welsh rugby performer.

"It was a different stadium to play in, a first time doing that internationally, which was something I enjoyed," said Wainwright.

"It was a great occasion, still really loud here, so massive thanks to all the fans that came out and made it a good occasion."

It was the first time Wales had won back-to-back Tests since the 2023 World Cup and it also represented a third successive victory following the uncapped international win against the Barbarians last weekend.

This mini revival comes after Wales experienced only two wins in 27 internationals between October 2023 and March 2026.

"We need to just keep building on the wins," said Wainwright.

"It starts to become a habit and the belief starts to build.

"I remember speaking when we were going through the middle of that poor run of form and the losses were adding up.

"We probably had guys coming into the team with not very much international experience.

"We've ridden that wave and hopefully are maybe starting to come out the other end of that."

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Wainwright travels to first cap scene as Pumas wait

Wainwright travels to first cap scene as Pumas wait

Passing on Argentina experience to class of 2026

Winning becomes a habit

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