Lukhanyo Am says he’s determined to play his way back into the Springbok squad as the Sharks prepare to face Leinster in Dublin on Saturday.
The 2019 World Cup winner, who last played for the Boks against England in November last year, missed out on their successful Rugby Championship campaign and admits it was difficult to watch from the sidelines.
“Injuries are part of the game we love,” the midfielder said. “Being out was tough, but I used the time to work on myself and come back stronger.
“Getting back into the Bok 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.”
Am, who has 42 Test caps, said 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.”
The Sharks are still searching for their first win of the Vodacom URC season after losing 35-19 to Glasgow and drawing 17-17 with the Dragons, but they will be boosted by the return of Springbok wingers Makazole Mapimpi and Ethan Hooker for their final match of a tough opening tour.
Had to call in a few reinforcements to take on Leinster’s Lions
pic.twitter.com/T4Ram9a95b
— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) October 7, 2025
Am believes the addition of the Bok duo could make a difference against a Leinster side also under pressure after back-to-back defeats in South Africa – 35-0 to the Stormers in Cape Town and 39-31 to the Bulls in Pretoria.
The defending URC champions are, however, expected to welcome back several British & Irish Lions who were rested for those games.
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“Ethan and Makazole are crucial to our team,” said Am. “They fit perfectly into our system, especially with our contestable kicking game. They’ve done it for us before and at Test level, so having them back is a big boost.”
Looking ahead to Saturday’s clash, Am said the Sharks were relishing the chance to test themselves against one of Europe’s best.
“Leinster are the champions for a reason,” he said. “The log position doesn’t mean much right now – it’s still early in the season. Playing away from home is always tough, but it’s the kind of game that brings out the best in players.
“These are the games you want to play, to measure where you’re at individually and as a team. We’re putting pressure on ourselves to perform, but in a positive way – to make sure our processes are right and we deliver on game day.”
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Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
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