As the Springboks have begun to expand their squad depth, with several ‘next gen’ players also continuing to make an impression, it’s no surprise that some former stars have found themselves faced with increasing competition for places.
One of these players is Lukhanyo Am, who has endured some battles with form and fitness in recent times, but the 31-year-old is now back with the Sharks and looking to making a big impression after recovering from injury.
“Injuries are part of the game we love,” he said. “Being out was tough, but I used the time to work on myself and come back stronger.
“Getting back into the Springbok mix will take game time and form. It’s very competitive there, but I know what it takes. I just need to keep improving and hopefully I’ll get that call again.”
Springbok competition at an all-time high
The Springbok coaches have recently spoken of their desire to get Am back into the squad set-up once he was back up and running, and so the double World Cup winner will certainly have plenty of incentive to make his mark when the Sharks prepare to face Leinster in the URC on Saturday.
At Springbok level, Am has had to watch from the sidelines as Jesse Kriel and Canan Moodie have moved up the pecking order at outside centre, but he admitted that watching his teammates lift another Rugby Championship trophy only fuelled his motivation.
“It’s been amazing to see the boys performing so well. I know what it takes to be there and to stay there, and I’m focused on doing the work that will get me back.”
NEXT TESTS THIS SEASON
- 1 November: vs Japan, Wembley. Kick off: 18:10.
- 8 November: vs France, Paris. Kick off: 22:10.
- 15 November: vs Italy, Turin. Kick off: 14:40
- 22 November: vs Ireland, Dublin. Kick off: 19:40.
- 29 November: vs Wales, Cardiff. Kick off: 17:10.
