Tighthead Wilco Louw is preparing to play in the first Test match of the 2026 series for the Springboks against Scotland, which will take place in Pretoria on Saturday. He will play a supporting role in the team's scrum.
Wilco Louw admitted that 2026 has been one of the most difficult years of his life. However, he noted that the unwavering support from his family, teammates, and national team management helped him get through an emotional period both on and off the field.
Earlier this year, Louw experienced the loss of his father, Marius, just a few months after deciding to move from Pretoria to Cape Town to be closer to his family. This loss temporarily pushed rugby to the background.
As he prepares for his first appearance of the season in the Nations Cup against Scotland on Saturday, the Stormers forward emphasized that the support he received within the Bok squad reminded him of the strong bond between players that goes beyond sporting achievements.
Louw expressed gratitude to the Springboks management for allowing him time to spend with his family, stating: 'I valued the time spent with my family.' He added that January was a difficult period and finds it incredible to be part of a team that supports players not only during games but at all stages of life.
Louw will feature in the new version of the Bok team in the second match of the tournament. Following a convincing victory over England, the team intends to maintain this form against another Six Nations opponent. This sturdy tighthead will play alongside former Edinburgh loosehead prop Boan Venter and Bulls hooker Johan Grobbelaar, responsible for setting the pace in the scrum.
According to Louw, URC matches are approaching Test level, especially considering the recent final between Leinster and Bulls. Although there is some familiarity with certain Scottish players, he insists that the Springboks' focus will be solely on themselves. He also mentioned that playing against them in Scotland and Loftus was beneficial, where the team achieved results both for and against itself.
Louw also highly rated the opposition's scrum. He worked with their scrum coach, former Bok representative Pieter de Villiers, whom he considers a true coach. He added that the Scots have strong front-row players, and their physical power, which led to many tries against Argentina, makes them a good scrum opponent. Among them are several players from the British and Irish Lions, including (South African) Pierre Schaman, and this promises to be a serious challenge they are ready for.
