Springbok centre Lukhanyo Am is thrilled to make his first start of the season after missing a significant portion of last year due to injury. The World Cup champion will feature for the Boks against Portugal this Saturday at Toyota Stadium.

Am, previously regarded as one of the world’s best centers and a World Player of the Year nominee, saw Jesse Kriel fill his role admirably during last year’s successful Webb Ellis Cup defense in France.

“It’s been an up-and-down 24 months with injuries, so I’m very excited about the opportunity to play,” said Am, who guided his side The Sharks to the Challenge Cup this past season.  

“I was thrilled to be called up to the team and to have the chance to work with the coaching staff. Tony (Brown, Springbok backline coach) has been trying to evolve our game and I believe we are on the right track, although we are still trying to master our new way of playing, but the more we try to action it on the field the better things will click in that regard.” 

The 35-test veteran welcomes the inclusion of young players. “It’s great that there’s some new blood coming through, and they bring a fresh energy to the team. 

“This will be a great occasion for them as individuals and for the team, and while there may be some nerves, I’m sure they’ll get past that and focus on the task at hand. We have a common goal as a team and we know that it’s going to be a massive challenge against Portugal, but it will be the same for us.” 

Portugal gets a home-field shot against the world champions, but Am remains cautious. “It’s going to be a big occasion for Portugal to face the world champions on home ground, but they are a quality team that beat Fiji in the World Cup, and they’ll give everything, so we are looking forward to the challenge.”

The Springboks have Thursday off before resuming preparations on Friday. The match against Portugal kicks off at 17:00 on Saturday.