Springbok flank Francois Louw is on the cover of the new SA Rugby magazine, on sale this week for just R29.90.
An injury to Jaco Kriel saw Louw called up to the Springboks for their home matches against the Wallabies and All Blacks in the Rugby Championship.
The 32-year-old delivered an industrious all-round effort in Bloemfontein that saw him make five carries, beat two defenders and complete 10 tackles. When he was replaced in the 65th minute, a vociferous crowd at the Free State Stadium took a moment to roundly applaud his efforts.
Louw then started at No 8 against the All Blacks, as the Boks came within a couple of points of causing a big upset at Newlands.
With Kriel in line to return to action only next year after undergoing shoulder surgery, Louw looks set to have a crucial role to play as the Boks head towards a challenging end-of-year tour against Ireland, France, Italy and Wales.
In the new issue of SA Rugby magazine, the Bath flank insists he will always put country before club, while Bok coach Allister Coetzee explains what makes Louw such a valuable addition to the team.
Also in the new issue:
– Ruan Combrinck hopes to earn a Springbok recall in 2018 and go to the 2019 World Cup
– In Vaea Fifita, the All Blacks have uncovered yet another superstar athlete from the islands, who looks set to take the Test scene by storm
– Dave Wessels on the Force being axed from Super Rugby, whether an Indo-Pacific tournament will be successful, and joining the Rebels
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– Winning the right to host the 2023 World Cup would give South African rugby a much-needed boost
– Pat Lambie on his injury struggles, retirement fears and decision to sign for French club Racing 92
– Jacques Vermeulen’s versatility has benefited the Sharks in this year’s Currie Cup
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– Grey College insists its partnership with Montpellier will not result in player poaching
– Former Sharks flank Jean Deysel joined a large South African contingent at Ulster
– Our first Saffas in Europe XV of the season, based on players’ club form in August and September
