Bulls star Elrigh Louw recalled to Springbok squad after inspiring injury comeback

Louw enjoyed a breakout 2024 with the Springboks, producing a series of standout performances before suffering a devastating knee injury in January 2025 that saw him tear multiple ligaments and fracture his leg during a URC clash against the Lions.

There were genuine fears that it could be a career-ending injury, but thankfully, the surgery was a success and Louw returned to action ahead of schedule in December, almost exactly 10 months later.

Since returning, Louw has quickly re-established himself as a key presence in the Bulls pack, earning selection in Springbok alignment camps before now forcing his way back into the wider national setup.

Although the 26-year-old is regarded as one of the hard men of South African rugby, he admitted that his injury was a traumatic experience he would not like to relive - making his return to the Bok squad all the more meaningful.

"Obviously, it's not great memories," he said earlier this year.

"It was, in a sense, quite traumatic and really painful. I haven't actually watched the footage of me getting injured; I haven't felt anything like that before and would never wish that on anyone.

"I obviously knew that I would be out of contention and out for the rest of the season and not be able to play for the Boks. That was the most difficult part to get over."

Louw's return comes as South Africa prepare to open their inaugural Nations Championship campaign against England at Ellis Park on Saturday.

The Boks will then face Scotland at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on Saturday, 11 July, before taking on Wales at Hollywoodbets Kings Park in Durban on Saturday, 18 July.