The powerful Elrigh Louw can’t wait to face Scotland at Murrayfield for the first time, as part of a new Springbok loose trio with ballhawks Kwagga Smith and Marco van Staden.
Speaking in a Bok team announcement conference in Edinburgh on Friday, Louw is relishing the opportunity to share the back row with two-time World Cup winner Smith, who’s reaching his 50th cap, and Vodacom Bulls teammate Van Staden.
A dynamic ball-carrier and lineout asset, Louw sees potential in the trio’s varied strengths: “I’m really excited to be able to play again. It’s going to be my first Test against Scotland, and my first time playing at Murrayfield, so I’m really excited.”
Louw is set to start at No 7 against the Scots on Sunday, yet is ready to slot in wherever needed for the world champions, whether at blindside flanker or at the back of the scrum.
The Pretoria-born wrecking ball is no stranger to moving around the pack, having spent the earlier parts of his career at lock, before being utilised at blindside flank and No 8 at the Bulls.
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As he continues to develop as a utility forward of sorts, the 25-year-old was among a crop of Bok new faces this season who earned their stripes in a title-winning Rugby Championship campaign, making a huge impact as a starter or off the bench as part of the Bomb Squad.
“Being able to play 7 and 8 gives Coach Rassie [Erasmus] and the management a bit more options when choosing a side. I don’t mind whichever position I play,” Louw added.
Speaking on the new-look back row, he sees a strong mix of skills: “Kwagga and Marco are both excellent on the ball, both very physical and energetic players.
“I might be more of a ball-carrying loose forward, so I think it’s a good and interesting combination.”
Photo: @Springboks/Twitter/Andy Le Gresley Photography
