Rugby Championship: Curwin Bosc in South Africa squad

Fly-half Curwin Bosch is one of three newcomers named in a 34-man South Africa squad for their opening game of this year's Rugby Championship campaign, which kicks-off later this month.

South Africa's first match against Argentina takes place in Port Elizabeth on August 19 and coach Allister Coetzee has made just six changes to the squad which beat France in their three-Test series in June.

Bosch makes the step up from South Africa's under-20 side, having made his debut for the Sharks in Super Rugby last year.

The other newcomers are Sharks' number eight Dan du Preez and Bulls' full-back Warrick Gelant - both are 22.

Flanker Uzair Cassiem, prop Trevor Nyakane and fly-half Handre Pollard are the only other players included who were not part of the Springboks' Test squad during June.

Captain Warren Whiteley is still six weeks away from recovering from the groin injury that forced him to miss the last Test against France, as well as the knock-out rounds of the Super Rugby competition.

Coetzee said in a statement: "We are looking for continuity, experience and combinations, all elements which I believe are reflected in the current squad selection.

"Warren's absence is a massive blow for the Springboks and for him personally. I really feel for him but I am sure he will get back stronger.

"It gives an opportunity for another player now and I am sure there will be very strong competition for the No 8. jersey."

South Africa's squad assembles in Port Elizabeth on Tuesday to begin preparing.

South Africa squad for a Rugby Championship fixture against Argentina in Port Elizabeth on August 19:

Forwards: Eben Etzebeth, Steven Kitshoff, Siya Kolisi, Frans Malherbe, Bongi Mbonambi, Pieter-Steph du Toit (all Stormers), Tendai Mtawarira, Coenie Oosthuizen, Daniel du Preez, Jean-Luc du Preez, Chiliboy Ralepelle (all Sharks), Lizo Gqoboka, Lood de Jager, Trevor Nyakane (all Bulls), Jaco Kriel, Malcolm Marx, Franco Mostert (all Lions), Uzair Cassiem, Oupa Mohoje (both Cheetahs).

Backs: Warrick Gelant, Jesse Kriel, Rudy Paige, Handre Pollard, Jan Serfontein (all Bulls), Andries Coetzee, Ross Cronje, Elton Jantjies, Courtnall Skosan (all Lions), Damian de Allende, Dillyn Leyds (both Stormers), Raymond Rhule, Francois Venter (both Cheetahs), Curwin Bosch (Sharks), Francois Hougaard (Worcester, England).