Lukhanyo Am is ready to fire for the Sharks after playing an unexpected role in helping the Springboks retain the World Cup last year.
Am endured a rollercoaster journey to the World Cup, with his sensational form in 2022 earning him a nomination for World Rugby’s Player of the Year award.
However, a month before the Springboks opened their World Cup title defence, disaster struck Am, as the centre suffered a knee injury in a warm-up against Argentina in Buenos Aires.
The injury prevented Am from being named in the original 33-player Bok squad that travelled to France. While the door into the squad was later opened when Makazole Mapimpi suffered a tournament-ending injury, Am ended up playing an off-field role in South Africa’s success, as he didn’t get any game time during the playoffs.
Reflecting on his World Cup in an interview with Planet Rugby, Am reflected on the positives from his involvement in helping the Boks make history.
“Being part of it was special,” Am told Planet Rugby, when asked about his time in France. “I was playing a different role, preparing the boys, which was really good.
“I definitely enjoyed watching us win the World Cup. It was very special for the team and for the country.”
Since returning to action with the Sharks, Am has found himself in a very different environment, as the Durban side made a poor start to their campaign and are currently bottom of the Vodacom URC.
However, with the Sharks securing a home playoff in the Challenge Cup, Am is able to look to the future with optimism.
“I am really happy being back on the pitch, being fit and able to perform for the Sharks,” Am added.
“I am really feeling confident with my knee, with my fitness and my game. So I am really happy with where I am at.
“I am looking forward on building and I think I am in a good space.”
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images