Victor Matfield’s next stop after playing for South Africa in the World Cup third-place play-off today could be North Field.

The lock, who will lead the Springboks against Argentina at the Olympic Stadium, will retire from international rugby for a second time after the game, having signed a one-year deal with Northampton, the English club side.

However, before turning out in the Aviva Premiership, Matfield could first appear for the Classic Springboks at next month’s World Rugby Classic.

Although not listed on the official team sheet, orgainsers have been told that Matfield, who played in Bermuda for the Springboks in 2013 when they won for the first time since 2007, is considering returning this year.

If he does come, he joins the likes of Bobby Skinstad, Thinus Delport and the evergreen Robbie Kempson in a squad looking to claim their fifth Classic title.

Other notable players expected to appear at the week-long tournament, include Welsh trio Ceri Sweeney, Ian Gough and Chris Wyatt, who will be playing for the Lions, Federico Todeschini and Carlos Fernandez Lobe for Argentina, while New Zealand, the defending champions, welcome the return of Brendan Laney and Aaron Persico.

This year’s Classic begins on Sunday, November 8 with Argentina taking on France at 2.30pm, followed by Canada against Classic Lions at 4pm. The following night South Africa take on the United States at 7.30pm, with Italy facing New Zealand in the late game at 8.30pm.

The Plate and Classic finals will be played on Saturday, November 14.