Patricio Albacete

Patricio Albacete remains the most-capped lock in Argentine rugby history, a towering presence who anchored the pack during the Pumas' historic rise to world rugby's elite. Over 58 tests, he consistently delivered at the lineout, winning 85% of his throws in key matches, and provided a formidable scrummaging platform. His ability to disrupt opposition ball was unmatched, outperforming even #7's defensive stats in crucial Rugby Championship contests. While younger locks offer more mobility, Albacete's reliability and leadership in set pieces were faster than the typical rival, setting the standard for generations to come. His contributions helped Argentina secure their first-ever Rugby Championship win in 2014, a testament to his enduring impact.