Thomas Gallo first caught the eye of many two years ago at the Under-20 Rugby World Cup when he ran in a try from 72 metres out, since then his prominence has only grown – breaking a world record on his international debut.
Gallo made his Argentina debut as a replacement in the 32-17 defeat against Australia in the final match of the Rugby Championship and scored two tries, becoming the first prop in the professional era score a brace on debut.
It seems inevitable that Gallo, 22, is destined for greatness, following in the footsteps of a long list of world class Argentine props that have graced the field – the likes of Rodrigo Roncero, Martin Scelzo and Marcos Ayerza.
A combination of both raw power as shown against Australia, and extreme pace – reaching 31mph to score that try against France Under-20s in 2019, Gallo has the physical attributes of the ideal prop manufactured in a factory.
Due to his international commitments, Gallo is yet to feature in the new United Rugby Championship for Benetton but was a key part of the side who lifted the Rainbow Cup last year, starting in five matches.
He also was involved in 11 matches in the Guinness PRO14, and two Challenge Cup matches, but despite playing such a small amount of rugby, he has already made his Test debut and is expected to wreak havoc during this Autumn Nations Series.
Pumas schedule
Argentina, fresh from a difficult Rugby Championship, will put themselves up against some of Europe’s best this Autumn.
Los Pumas begin their Autumn Nations Series against France at the Stade de France, before travelling to face Italy, a nation which Gallo was qualified to represent, finally they will play against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium on November 20.
Having announced himself onto the scene with the Argentina national side in Queensland, the Benetton prop is likely to be involved in these fixtures, although he does find himself in competition with the likes of fellow young prop Rodrigo Martinez and Facundo Gigena to force his way into Mario Ledesma’s matchday squad.
Gallo has all the potential to be a major part of the Argentina front row for the next decade, with outrageous pace and incredible power, whilst his low centre of gravity not only adds to his ball carrying prowess but also his ability at scrum time.
He is certainly going to be one to watch this Autumn for Los Pumas, whilst his potential battle against Tadhg Furlong in Dublin is one that all prop lovers world-wide will be drooling over.
