SANZAR chief Oregan Hoskins has laid down a deadline of 2012 for plans to be in place for Argentina's Tri-Nations bow © Getty Images

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Plans to include Argentina in the Tri-Nations have taken a leap forward with the news that structures for the change must be in place by 2012.

South African Rugby Union President Oregan Hoskins, also chairman of SANZAR, the governing body of the Tri-Nations, has confirmed that the wheels are in motion for the Pumas to be included provided the plans meet the 2012 deadline.

"The sooner we can get Argentina in the Tri-Nations the better," Hoskins told Die Burger newspaper. "I'm meeting with them in Buenos Aires on January 16. Rugby in Argentina needs a professional arm. The International Rugby Board is very eager to see Argentina playing in the Tri-Nations.

"Apart from the professional arm that needs to be established, rugby in Argentina also requires a culture of professionalism Their top players are based in Europe and a plan has to be made to get them back to Argentina."

Hoskins also discussed the possibility of developing another South African Super 14 franchise, this time in the Eastern Cape. "The Eastern Cape is very high on our agenda. We have already met with Eastern Province's new president [Cheeky Watson]," said Hoskins. "We aim to build a franchise there and play some friendly games against top sides, but I don't want to reveal much more at this stage."