Lukhanyo Am took another step on his road back to Springbok contention with a composed performance for South Africa A in their comprehensive 40-0 defeat of Zimbabwe in Gqeberha on Saturday. The 32-year-old centre, who last represented his country in the 29-20 victory over England at Twickenham in November 2024, anchored a youthful backline in the curtain-raiser to the Springboks-Barbarians fixture at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
Am's move to Mitsubishi Dynaboars last November appears to have revitalised the two-time World Cup winner after an injury-ravaged 2025 campaign. Playing outside teenage centre Markus Muller, Am provided the experience and defensive organisation that allowed his less-heralded teammates to express themselves. His 42 Test caps offered a calming presence in a backline otherwise populated by rookies, and his selection for the SA A fixture suggests he remains firmly in Rassie Erasmus's thinking despite the presence of Damian de Allende, André Esterhuizen and Jesse Kriel ahead of him in the pecking order.
The match itself showcased the depth of South African rugby, with Muller grabbing the second try after demonstrating sharp anticipation to pounce on loose ball. Flyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed had earlier weaved through the Zimbabwean defence for an exceptional individual score, but his afternoon ended in controversy when he was shown a red card for taking out fullback Tapuwa Mafura in the air. The bunker confirmed the dismissal minutes later, and Ahmed now faces an anxious wait to discover whether a suspension will rule him out of the Junior World Championship later this month.
Forward-looking implications
Am's return to the South African setup comes at a pivotal moment. With the Springboks entering a new cycle and Erasmus known for rewarding form and fitness, the former Sharks midfielder will hope his performances in Japan and for SA A can force a recall. His move abroad has coincided with a leaner physique and sharper decision-making, attributes that were evident in his measured display against Zimbabwe.
The red card for Ahmed, meanwhile, casts a shadow over what was otherwise a dominant showing from Mzwandile Stick's charges. The Junior Boks will await the outcome of the disciplinary process with trepidation, knowing that any lengthy ban could deprive them of one of their most talented playmakers at a crucial juncture. For Am, however, the focus will be on building momentum and proving he still has a role to play at the highest level.