It really wasn’t all that long ago that Lukhanyo Am was the unequivocal first-choice outside centre for the Springboks, and one of the best players in world rugby.
After making his debut for the Springboks in 2017 at the age of 24, he quickly established himself as a fixture in the side, with his silky skills, exceptional defence and natural ability to read the game making him an integral member of the squad.
His heroics in the 2019 World Cup will never be forgotten (such as the no-look pass for Makazole Mapimpi to score in the final), while he would go on to play an important role in the triumphant 2021 British & Irish Lions series.
However, Am only started five Tests in 2022, and three in 2023, as fitness and form began to waver at inopportune times.
Last year (despite featuring in seven Tests), he also missed a big bulk of the season with a serious knee injury, and this has appeared to hinder his mobility and pace even upon returning from injury.
It’s again a troublesome knee injury that has plagued Am at the start of the 2025 season, and recently he was one of the players released back to his domestic franchise the Sharks.
Lukhanyo Am working his way back
Recent images have shown Am back in training at the Sharks, and so there is hope that he could soon be available to get some game-time in the Currie Cup or URC.
The fact of the matter is that although Jesse Kriel has stepped up superbly and made the No 13 jersey his own at the Springboks, it is still a position where the national side does need some depth.
Beyond Kriel, the Springboks do view Canan Moodie as an option at outside centre, but he has played most of his Test rugby to date out on the wing.
It shouldn’t be forgotten that Am is still only 31-years-old, and so there is no reason why the dynamic midfielder couldn’t work his way back into the Springbok mix if he can find some consistent form and fitness.
With 42 Test to his name, don’t bet against Lukhanyo Am being able to at least reach the 50-cap milestone, and perhaps even fight for a place in the 2027 World Cup squad?
DO YOU THINK THE BOKS SHOULD STILL BE KEEPING HIM IN MIND?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
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