Adam Beard's return could be Key for Wales' chances against Los Pumas

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Beard is set to start his first game since the record 52-20 defeat against Australia last Autumn after joining Top 14 side Montpellier. The 29-year-old has played 58 internationals for Wales and one Test for the British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa.

He missed the torrid Six Nations campaign, which Warren Gatland left midway through the championship due to sustaining a knee injury, an injury he suffered against the Wallabies in the Welsh capital. At the time, Ospreys head coach, Toby Booth, stated that the 6 ft 8 in second row would be “out for three months”.

This ruled him out of the Six Nations, and he missed several matches for the Ospreys. Interim head coach at the time, Matt Sherratt, as part of managing player welfare, was the reason behind the former Ospreys player missing the summer tour of the Far East.

The tour to Japan also coincided with Beard’s move to the south of France at the end of the United Rugby Championship season. However, his timely return will be a boost for Tandy as a stern test awaits against a big Argentinian pack.

“It's amazing, buzzing for tomorrow, can't wait to get back in that Welsh jersey in front of this amazing stadium," said Beard after Wales’ captain’s run at Principality Stadium ahead of the meeting with Los Pumas.

"It's been a year since playing for Wales, unfortunate to have that knee injury in the Autumn, I just can't wait to get that jersey back on.

"I've been lucky enough to do it so many times, over so many years. So, to have that little bit, not of a break but like the injury, and working hard to get back fit.

"Obviously, going to a different club, to have the opportunity to put the jersey back on again, is just an amazing feeling."

Wales are underdogs tomorrow afternoon as Tandy calls the shots for the very first time as his country's coach. Standing across from Tandy’s side will be Argentina, who currently sit six places above Wales in the World Rugby rankings.

They are fresh off a standout year, which has seen them record wins against the Lions in Ireland, New Zealand, and Australia.

"They're going to be a team full of confidence, like you've seen in the summer," he added.

In what was not the prettiest or standout clash with Los Pumas, back in November 2022, was Wales’ last competitive triumph in the Welsh capital as they claimed the spoils 20-13. This was before Wayne Pivac’s side were humbled by Georgia 13-12, on a rather sombre afternoon in Cardiff.

Wales ended their losing run against Japan over the summer, a result they will build on when they take on Japan in week two of the Autumn period. However, new head coach Tandy's identity and philosophy will be on show for all to see on Sunday afternoon.

"To be honest, he's (Steve) been amazing," continued Beard.