Lukhanyo Am eyes Springbok comeback as 2027 World Cup dream burns bright

After recurring knee issues stalled his international career, the midfield maestro - once considered one of the best players in the world - is reigniting his push for the No 13 jersey he once called his own.

Now with the Mitsubishi Sagamihara Dynaboars in Japan, the former Sharks star has found renewed motivation in the fresh environment, following a frustrating spell on the sidelines that kept him out of the international picture in 2025.

Having last featured for the Boks during the 2024 end-of-year tour, the 32-year-old admits watching from afar has only sharpened his hunger to return and prove he still belongs at the highest level.

"This game we play is really tough. Injuries happen, and some guys pick up their fitness quicker; some guys take longer," Am told Rugby365.

"For me, I'm experienced enough; I've had my ups and downs throughout my career, and being sidelined is always tough.

"But it's also a bittersweet feeling watching the boys do well.

"Being out is tough. You want to be part, you want to make those memories. So it was tough, but it was rewarding watching the boys do well."

In a major boost to his Bok hopes, Am was recalled to Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus' first alignment camp of the year, which took place in March.

Am was only logging in virtually along with the rest of the Japan-based players invited to the camp, but it meant the world to him.

"It was a special moment getting the nod to be involved in the extended alignment camp and to know that the coaches are still keeping an eye on us this side," he said.

"And it was also a motivator for me, knowing that I am still on the radar, the coaches are still looking at what I have been doing here in Japan. So it has been really motivating for me, happy."

Am did not hide his ambition to return to the Springbok team, making it clear that playing at another World Cup - set for 2027 in Australia - remains firmly on his radar.

"I need to be good enough to be selected and be able to compete at that level.

"What I can control is first of all taking care of my body, making sure I'm fit and in a good condition, not just for the League I am playing in, but for a national or Test level condition," he explained, and added, "That is what I can control, and that is the challenge that I have.

"If you tick the Springbok coaches' boxes as a player, they will draw you into the squad.

"The desire is still there. I am still competitive, still playing in a quality competition, and trying to play the best rugby I can.

"From my side, just playing my part and hopefully working myself back into the group. It's just a special group and playing for your national team will always be the pinnacle.

"So at the moment I am just working on my game and making sure I am lifting the standards all the time."