Beard hopes to repeat Wales success in Argentina

Wales lock Adam Beard is a man who has been to Argentina before and won. Eight years ago he started in Wales' 23-10 triumph over the Pumas at the same San Juan venue. As Wales prepare to return this Saturday, a handful of players from that 2018 squad remain, including Josh Adams, Dillon Lewis, Aaron Wainwright, Ryan Elias and Tomos Williams.

"It's great to be back here eight years after the last time and how quick that time has gone, it's crazy," said Beard. "Argentina are a proud nation with a great rugby side. There's a few of us who've been here before and had some good victories. The squad has changed since then but hopefully we can get a result this weekend."

Beard will win his 67th cap on Saturday. After a nightmare performance against France in the Six Nations, where a botched kick led to a French try, he was dropped to the replacements bench. However, with Exeter captain Dafydd Jenkins ruled out due to a shoulder injury, Beard returned to the starting side for the opening Nations Championship victory over Fiji.

Head coach Steve Tandy praised Beard's response: "I thought it was one of his best games for us last weekend. The response shows what Beardy is as a bloke. His drive to get back on the team has been outstanding." Beard himself admitted the France match was not good enough but says he reflected and adapted to a different role off the bench.

Beard's move to French club Montpellier after leaving the Ospreys has been a highlight. "I personally loved it and it was probably the best decision I've made rugby wise so far for myself and my family. It's a physical league but the support and passion in the Top 14 is a different level."

The match takes place on Saturday, 11 July at 20:10 BST at the Estadio San Juan del Bicentenario, a venue that holds just over 25,000. Coverage is available on S4C, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru, BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website. Beard looks forward to the hostile crowds: "These are the type of events and places that you want to go and play in. To experience different crowds and teams is great."