Bulls and Springbok loose forward Elrigh Louw has welcomed World Rugby’s decision to outlaw the hip-drop tackle.
The governing body recently announced that from 1 November, the technique will be specifically covered under Law 9.13, which deals with dangerous tackling, with offenders facing a minimum sanction of a penalty.
The tackle involves a defender using his bodyweight to drag the ball-carrier to the ground before landing on the player’s legs from behind.
Louw suffered a serious knee injury from such a tackle during a URC match against the Lions at Ellis Park in January 2025. He initially feared his career could be over but returned to action 10 months later.
Asked about the law change ahead of the Bulls’ Investec Champions Cup opener against Stade Français at Loftus on Saturday, Louw said: “It does hit me quite personally, but for future player safety I’m very happy they changed it. It’s a great addition to the laws.”
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Louw has made three appearances for the Springboks this year, including their most recent Test against the Wallabies in Perth, but admits he is still working his way back to his best after a mentally challenging recovery.
“I don’t think I’m there yet, to be honest, but just to get an opportunity to be in the Springbok set-up again was massive for me,” he said.
Great to see that World Rugby are outlawing “Hip drop” and “knee drop” tackles.
Elrigh Louw was sidelined for 10 months because of this tackle which resulted in damaged ligaments in his left knee and also broke his leg. https://t.co/khXFxncNjh
— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) October 7, 2026
The post Hip-drop law hits home for Louw appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Bulls and Springbok loose forward Elrigh Louw has welcomed World Rugby’s decision to outlaw the hip-drop tackle.
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