Super Rugby
Argentina sign star duo for new Super Rugby franchise
ESPN Staff
September 4, 2015
Juan Manuel Leguizamon will return to Argentina for the first time in a decade © Getty Images
Enlarge

After a decade of rugby in Europe, Juan Manuel Leguizamon will return to Argentina to represent Argentina's new Super Rugby franchise in 2016. Representing London Irish, Stade Francais and Lyon, the 32-year-old signed a one-year contract for the new franchise.

Leguizamon brings his substantial experience to the side with over 60 Test caps to his name and his provincial experience.

"The priority was always to play for the Pumas and when it appeared the first idea of the franchise from then drove me crazy to be a part," Leguizamon said. "Therefore, there were many things that made this decision easy. The project is amazing and I could not wait to be part of this. To play Super Rugby is extraordinary and be part of it has a lot to do with my decision."

Pumas star Juan Martin Hernandez has also signed on to the new franchise for the 2016 season. The 33-year-old has played throughout Europe and also has experience in Super Rugby after playing with the Sharks and brings 53 Test caps to the side.

UAR President, Carlos Arujo said Leguizamon's signing was important for Argentina rugby and would bring more strength to the new franchise.

"This is another important day for Argentine rugby," Araujo said. "Juan Manuel has been a strength of the Pumas and one of the pillars of a process that has been underway for years and that will peak in 2016 with the inclusion of Argentina in the Super Rugby competition.

"For these reasons, it is remarkable and very important gesture for 'Legui' to return home and sign his contract with the UAR, neither more nor less a further demonstration its enormous commitment to the Argentine rugby."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd

Live Sports

Communication error please reload the page.