Lukhanyo Am believes his return to Japan’s League One is the reset he needs to force his way back into Rassie Erasmus’ Springbok plans ahead of the World Cup.
Am, 32, was officially unveiled by the Mitsubishi Dynaboars on Monday, confirming that he could not turn down a second crack at the competition after a short but influential spell with the Kobe Steelers in 2022.
LUKHANYO: I know what it takes to be a Bok again
With younger midfielders like Canan Moodie and Ethan Hooker surging ahead in the Bok pecking order this year, Am said the timing felt right for a fresh challenge.
“When I received the offer this time, I spoke to Kurt-Lee (Arendse) and thought it was a good opportunity for me to contribute to the team, so taking everything into consideration, I decided that it was the right time,” said the 42-cap Springbok, who was on standby for South Africa’s year-end tour.
Am has already put in two weeks of pre-season with the Dynaboars and is expected to feature in Saturday’s opening-round clash against Urayasu D-Rocks.
“I’m happy to have spent the past two weeks with the team in pre-season and to be preparing for the start of the season. I would like to share my career and experiences with my teammates and contribute to the team with my performance.”
The double World Cup winner says Japan’s fast, ball-in-hand style suits his instincts.
“I love Japan, its people and culture, and I wanted to experience it again. As a back, I like the development rugby that involves moving the ball around, and I think it suits my style.”
Am added that the move is also about personal growth.
“Rugby is constantly evolving. If I don’t keep learning, I’ll be left behind, so I want to learn here.”
Photo: Buddhika Weerasinghe/Getty Images
The post Am looks to Japan to revive Bok hopes appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Lukhanyo Am believes his return to Japan’s League One is the reset he needs to force his way back into Rassie Erasmus’ Springbok plans ahead of the World Cup.
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