Pablo Matera

Pablo Matera was born on July 18, 1993, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. From a young age, he showed great interest and talent in rugby, which led him to pursue the sport professionally. His early years in Buenos Aires set the stage for his development into one of Argentina's prominent rugby players.

Pablo Matera made his debut in The Rugby Championship for Argentina on August 17, 2013, against South Africa. This marked the beginning of his international career with Los Pumas, Argentina's national rugby team. His performance in the championship gained him recognition as a formidable flanker at the international level.

Matera was part of the Argentine squad for the 2015 Rugby World Cup held in England. During the tournament, he played a significant role in Argentina's successful campaign to reach the semifinals. His performances in the World Cup showcased his skills on the global stage and solidified his reputation as a key player for La Albiceleste.

In 2016, Pablo Matera joined the Jaguares, Argentina's Super Rugby franchise, and played a pivotal role in the team. His leadership and ability on the field helped elevate the Jaguares in the competitive Super Rugby tournament. Matera's involvement with the club was critical in developing Argentina's domestic rugby structure.

Pablo Matera was appointed the captain of the Argentina national rugby team, Los Pumas, on July 6, 2019. Under his leadership, the team undertook multiple international tours and competitions. His captaincy has been noted for its emphasis on improving team strategy and fostering a strong sense of unity and resilience within the squad.

In December 2020, Pablo Matera was involved in a controversy when past xenophobic and discriminatory social media posts resurfaced. The posts, made years earlier, prompted an investigation by the Argentine Rugby Union. Matera temporarily lost his captaincy as a result, and the incident sparked extensive discussions on social responsibility and personal accountability.

Pablo Matera signed with Stade Français, a leading French rugby club, in February 2021. This move marked a significant step in Matera's professional career, as he began competing in the French Top 14 league. His transfer contributed to the strengthening of the Stade Français lineup and demonstrated his adaptability in various competitive environments.

During the 2021 Rugby Championship, Pablo Matera played a crucial role for Argentina, showcasing his skills in a challenging international environment. His contributions were vital for the team, though Argentina struggled against some of the world's top rugby nations. Matera's experience and leadership were invaluable throughout the tournament.

After his stint with Stade Français, Pablo Matera signed with the Crusaders, a New Zealand team part of Super Rugby, effective from the 2022 season. This switch to one of the most prestigious clubs in the rugby world was a testament to his skill and reputation. Playing with the Crusaders provided Matera with new challenges and opportunities to refine his game.

In 2023, Pablo Matera returned to Argentina to participate in domestic rugby competitions, focusing on contributing to the local rugby scene. His return was welcomed as it brought significant attention and expertise to the Argentine rugby league. Matera's presence in the national competitions served to inspire and mentor the next generation of Argentine rugby talent.