The Pumas have recently beaten Scotland, Wales and Six Nations champions France and were competitive against South Africa for 70 minutes in the one-off Test.

"We are ready for the Tri-Nations now and I would like to see us playing in it as soon as possible," Pichot said.

However, Pumas coach Marcelo Loffreda suggested exposing his side to opponents from New Zealand, Australia and South Africa more slowly.

"I think perhaps it would be better to start gradually and play in the Super 12s first and then move on to the Tri-Nations," he said.

Meanwhile, Springbok prop Ollie le Roux was in favour of the Pumas' inclusion.

"I would love to play Argentina on a yearly basis, it's an awesome place to go to and they are a great rugby side," said le Roux, who won his 50th cap.

"It would just strengthen rugby in the southern hemisphere."

Experience

But Springbok coach Rudolf Straeuli would not be drawn into the debate.

"Argentina are always a strong side and they play with a lot of passion and pride," Straeuli said.

"What is good for them is that most of the team are playing in the English premiership and gaining good experience.

"You've seen their past results and I don't think there is a lot of difference between their players and ours.

"But I can't really say if they should be involved in the Tri-Nations. I'm just a coach and don't make those kinds of decisions."

In Springs, east of Johannesburg, on Saturday, South African fly-half Andre Pretorius scored 24 points in only his third Test, scoring a try, five conversions and three penalties.

South Africa play Samoa in Pretoria next week.