Newcastle Falcons pair Pedro Rubiolo and Eduardo Bello are in Argentina training with the national team ahead of Saturday’s test against France.

The game in Mendoza kicks off at 8pm UK time and is being shown live on Sky Sports, forming part of a two-test series against the French.

Head coach Felipe Contepomi has the reins for the first time since stepping into the senior role following the departure of Michael Cheika.

Rubiolo (left of picture) has returned to fitness following the dislocated shoulder he suffered during Newcastle Falcons’ away win over Perpignan in January, with the 21-year-old having been capped 10 times by Los Pumas.

Prop-forward Bello played 16 times during his maiden season with the Falcons, and the 28-year-old will be hoping to add to his 21 test caps as Argentina kick off their summer schedule.

Following Saturday’s opener in Mendoza Argentina and France meet again in Buenos Aires on Saturday July 13, followed by an away game against Uruguay on Saturday July 20 in Maldonado.

Los Pumas then move into their Rugby Championship campaign, with away tests against New Zealand on August 10 and 17, followed by Australia at home on August 31 and September 7 before South Africa at home on September 21 and away on September 28.