Francois Louw
Francois Louw is determined to keep hold of his Springbok jersey despite being based overseas in Bath.
Louw is 1 of the overseas-based players expected to make the Springbok squad to be announced later this week. However other contenders for the openside role are the likes of Heinrich Brussow, Marcell Coetzee, Siya Kolisi and Jaco Kriel who have all been in the Super Rugby spotlight this year.
Louw is the incumbent Springbok flank and has been Heyneke Meyer’s 1st choice for some time though he acknowledges the challenge of cracking the Springbok squad from the northern hemisphere.
“When I 1st signed for Bath, I knew it would be more challenging making the Springbok squad. But it was a move I needed to make at that stage of my career as I needed a fresh challenge, on and off the field,” Louw said.
“So when Heyneke Meyer gave me my opportunity in 2012, I was delighted and made the most of it. I’m glad that I’ve been able to play an extended role for South Africa over the years, and I want to continue giving my best to the team.”
The 30-year-old has had another quality season for his English club Bath where they finished as Premiership runners-up in what was one of Baths’ best seasons yet. Bath were knocked out in the quarterfinals of the European Champions Cup.
Louw, who boasts 34 Test caps, was further recognised for his valuable contribution to Bath when he was the only South African named in the Premiership team of the season, underlining his influence on the field.
The loose forward is excited to make a valuable contribution if called up to the national squad for the upcoming Rugby Championship and the Rugby World Cup.
“I’d love the opportunity to make coach Heyneke Meyer’s squad. Every South African player will be hoping to make the cut. We will have to see what happens later this week,” Louw said.
“But it’s definitely an exciting year ahead with The Rugby Championship set to be full of action, and shortly thereafter, the World Cup kicks off. It’s every player’s dream to be part of the global tournament as you get to prove yourself on the biggest stage of world rugby.
“I can still remember the excitement during the preparations for the 2011 World Cup, and the team’s journey in New Zealand. It was an amazing experience.”
Louw has been enjoying some rest and relaxation in Cape Town over the past 4 weeks since the Premiership campaign ended on 30 May.
“This has been the longest holiday I’ve enjoyed in a long, long time, so I’m definitely making the most of it,” said Louw.
“I travelled down to Cape Town a few weeks ago, so it’s been great catching up with the family back at home.
“My wife and I are also spending some quality time with our 8-month-old daughter, who has added so much joy to our lives. Fatherhood has been great.”
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