Lukhanyo Am, a versatile rugby player, was born on 28 November 1993 in Qonce, Cape Province, Republic of South Africa. Standing at a height of 1.86 meters (6 feet 1 inch) and weighing 93 kilograms (205 pounds), Am has made a name for himself as a center and wing.
Am attended Hoërskool De Vos Malan, where he initially played as a loose forward. He later joined various teams, including Border, Falcons, and the Sharks, where he is currently contracted for the Currie Cup.
In 2016, while under contract with the Sharks, Am joined the Southern Kings on loan for the Super Rugby season. During his time with the Kings, he showcased his skills and scored one try in his 10 appearances. His performances caught the attention of selectors, and he was called up to represent the South African A side against the England Saxons.
Impressed by Am's performances, the Sharks decided to keep him at the franchise for the 2017 Super Rugby season after a strong showing in the 2016 Currie Cup. He began the Super Rugby season in fine form, earning recognition as one of the eight uncapped players in the Springboks squad for the 2017 June internationals against France. Unfortunately, an injury sustained against the Stormers ruled him out of the June internationals.
Am made a successful return to action with the Sharks in Super Rugby, featuring in all but one of their matches. Although he missed out on selection for the Rugby Championship, his performances earned him a spot in the Springboks' end-of-year tour squad after helping the Sharks reach the Currie Cup Final.
Under the coaching of Rassie Erasmus, Am made his test debut for the Springboks, adding to his growing list of achievements. He continued to contribute to the team's success, accumulating six test caps during the Rugby Championship before an injury ended his season. He made a strong comeback during the 2019 Super Rugby season, heading into the campaign with 42 Super Rugby caps and eight tries to his name.
Am's talent shone brightly during the Rugby World Cup, particularly in the final where he selflessly passed the ball to Makazole Mapimpi for South Africa's first try. This showcased his skill, teamwork, and impact on the biggest stage of international rugby.
In January 2020, Am was honored with the captaincy of the Sharks ahead of the 2020 Super Rugby season, demonstrating his leadership qualities. He has since represented the South Africa national team, earning 15 test caps and scoring three tries.
Am also featured for the South Africa A team, contributing to their 17-13 victory over the Lions in Cape Town. As he prepares for the upcoming Lions Series and tests against Georgia, Am continues to make his mark on the rugby field with his exceptional skills and leadership abilities.
KG(25/05/2023)
Career
Natal Sharks Outside Centre |
2016 - present | |
Sharks Outside Centre |
2017 - present | |
South Africa Outside Centre |
2017 - present | |
Border Bulldogs Outside Centre |
2013 - 2013 | |
Southern Kings Outside Centre |
2016 - 2016 | |
Barbarians Outside Centre |
2019 - 2019 | |
South Africa A Right Wing |
2016 - 2022 | |
Springbok Gold Outside Centre |
2020 - 2022 | |
Kobelco Kobe Steelers Outside Centre |
2022 - 2023 | |
Hoërskool De Vos Malan Outside Centre |