Pumas ready to join Tri-Nations

Argentina's World Cup exploits will see them rewarded with a place in an annual tournament, according to IRB chairman Dr Syd Millar.

The Pumas have beaten France, Ireland and Scotland en route to the semi-finals and now it appears that South Africa, New Zealand and Australia (SANZAR) may be preparing to welcome them into the Tri-Nations tournament.

'The SANZAR unions are reviewing the numbers and we hope that they will come to the right conclusions and admit Argentina,' said Millar.

'I believe that SANZAR need to freshen up their tournament and they know that themselves. I think they are seriously considering it.'

Miller also allayed fears that the board had resolved to reduce the next World Cup — in New Zealand in 2011 — from 20 to 16 teams.

Just one European — France centre Yannick Jauzion — has made it on to the shortlist for this year's IRB Player of the Year award.

The other nominees are Felipe Contepomi and Juan Martin Hernandez (both Argentina), Richie McCaw (New Zealand) and Bryan Habana (South Africa).