One of Argentina’s players could be facing disciplinary action after heated scenes involving referee Angus Gardner at the end of Saturday’s 31-24 defeat to England.
Tempers flared after the final whistle in Santiago del Estero, with several Los Pumas players surrounding the Australian official following the controversial decision to disallow what would have been a dramatic late equalising try.
Television footage appears to show players making physical contact with Gardner as they protested the call, prompting members of Argentina’s coaching staff to step in and escort the referee away from the confrontation.
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World Rugby review likely
While players frequently question referees after matches, World Rugby has strict rules regarding the treatment of match officials.
Any inappropriate physical contact or intimidation of a referee can be referred to the disciplinary process, with sanctions ranging from fines to significant suspensions depending on the severity of the offence.
Whether any player is charged will depend on Gardner’s official match report and the findings of the match commissioner, who will review the post-match incidents.
They actually made physical contact with the ref.
Likelihood is this will result in a ban.
You can’t touch the ref. Physical intimidation. pic.twitter.com/q04dSznBmX
— RugbyInsideLine (@RugbyInsideLine) July 18, 2026
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EDITORS PICKS:
England player ratings vs Argentina:
15. Marcus Smith — 7
He had a relatively quiet start but took his opportunities well when called upon, producing a strong tackle on Mateo Carreras and finishing smartly in the corner for the bonus-point try.
Smith was tested by Tomás Albornoz, who managed to bump him off, and was again moved back to scrum-half for the second time in as many weeks.
The decision not to shift him to fly-half during Fin Smith’s HIA was perhaps telling of where he currently stands in Steve Borthwick’s plans.
14. Tommy Freeman — 7
Freeman was reliable and effective throughout, showing excellent awareness to finish off Fin Smith’s cross-field kick for the opening try.
The Northampton Saints winger provided plenty of value through his work-rate, combining strong carries, a smart kick chase and a well-placed touchline kick to build pressure.
Although opportunities were limited, he made the most of his touches and continued to offer a dangerous attacking outlet.
13. Henry Slade — 7
The experienced Exeter Chiefs centre’s combination with Seb Atkinson in midfield looked promising, while he also adapted well when moving to fly-half during Fin Smith’s HIA.
His highlight came defensively, producing a huge tackle on Tomás Albornoz to halt a dangerous attack.
12. Seb Atkinson — 7
Atkinson produced a composed and effective display, showing sharp hands, strong breakdown work and good distribution to help create attacking opportunities.
His direct style and consistency stood out, with the 24-year-old making a strong case to retain the No.12 jersey.
11. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso — 9
Was it Immanuel Feyi-Waboso playing in Santiago del Estero, or prime Julian Savea? It was a standout display from the Exeter Chiefs winger, whose explosive running and powerful carrying caused problems throughout.
He made a series of dangerous breaks, including a superb effort that set up Ben Earl, while his defensive work was equally impressive with a crucial tackle out wide.
He capped a brilliant performance by bursting through for a deserved try.
Feyi Waboso surely wins it for England!
Lovely solo run from the winger, and England, with ten minutes to go, are in prime position to see this out 🔥#NationsChampionship pic.twitter.com/kwm8Eq3WJs
— ITV Rugby (@ITVRugby) July 18, 2026
10. Fin Smith — 8
Smith has now firmly established himself as England’s first-choice No.10, with his composure and decision-making leaving little doubt over his place in the side.
He once again showed his quality with a perfectly weighted kick to Tommy Freeman to create the opening try, continuing a partnership that has become a key attacking weapon.
Despite an unlucky knock-on with the try-line at his mercy, Smith remained composed, returning from a mouthguard-related HIA to land a huge touchline conversion under pressure.