Reinhardt Ludwig is making the most of every opportunity at the Vodacom Bulls, whether at lock or blindside flanker, as he builds towards becoming a Springbok, reports DEVIN HERMANUS.
The former Affies headboy and first XV captain, who was instrumental in the Junior Springboks’ triumphant 2022 Summer Series campaign, has emerged as a valuable asset in the Bulls setup, particularly when co-captains Ruan Nortje and Elrigh Louw are unavailable.
“Any game you play is a massive privilege. I was injured for four weeks and it was a difficult time for me to not be in the mix, so I’m very fortunate to be playing again,” said Ludwig in the buildup to the Vodacom URC clash between the Bulls and Benetton in Treviso on Friday.
“We have a great squad here at the Bulls; guys like Ruan and Elrigh play 5 and 7 and are both Springboks and they’re guys who I look up to as players and as leaders. So for me to step up and fill their shoes is always a massive responsibility… but I like to challenge myself, whether it’s at 5 or 7.”
The 1.99m, 110kg bruiser understands the importance of continuous development. “I’m still a young player who’s growing and learning, and the more I play and the more game time I get under the belt the better I’ll get as a player.
“My main dream is obviously to become a Springbok as well. I must just keep focusing on every game and making small improvements.”
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The 22-year-old Ludwig’s leadership qualities, first evident during his school days, have carried through to senior rugby. “Leadership is a feeling thing, and you obviously must lead by example. And the most important thing is to stay calm and keep the boys calm under pressure.
“I captained a few games in the Currie Cup a few years ago, and before that I was only really captain at school level. But it’s been awhile…”
The absence of senior and frontline players has provided Ludwig with opportunities to step up. “There’s definitely a bigger responsibility but with that responsibility comes opportunity, and if you take this opportunity with both hands and use it to your advantage it shows the coaches and the players next you that, ‘listen, this guy has got it.’”
As the Bulls prepare for their final URC match before the international break, Ludwig remains focused on contributing to the team’s riposte following the Herd’s defeat to the Scarlets last week.
“The loss was very disappointing but our whole focus is to come back stronger,” he explained.
“This week our whole mindset is to bounce back… our whole focus is on the Benetton game and then after that we’ll focus on what’s lying ahead.
“For me personally, I would’ve liked to have played two more games or so, I’m still feeling fresh, feeling good.”
Photo: Gordon Arons/Gallo Images
