Elrigh Louw Welcomes World Rugby Hip-Drop Tackle Ban After Career-Threatening Knee Injury
- Elrigh Louw has a personal reason for welcoming World Rugby’s hip-drop tackle ban, following a serious injury that threatened his playing career
- The Bulls and Springbok forward spent 10 months recovering from a devastating knee injury, and his latest comments explain why the new law matters to him
- World Rugby’s new tackle regulations take effect in November, as Louw continues his journey back to his best form after a difficult recovery
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Bulls loose forward Elrigh Louw has welcomed World Rugby’s decision to outlaw hip-drop tackles, saying the change carries personal significance following his serious knee injury in 2025.
The Springbok sustained the injury during a United Rugby Championship (URC) match against the Lions at Ellis Park in January last year. He initially feared his playing career might be over but returned to action 10 months later.
Speaking ahead of the Bulls’ Investec Champions Cup opener against Stade Français at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, 17 October 2026, Louw welcomed the move.
“It does hit me quite personally, but for future player safety I’m very happy they changed it. It’s a great addition to the laws,” he said, as quoted by SA Rugby Magazine.
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World Rugby introduces hip-drop tackle ban
World Rugby announced on 7 October 2026 that hip-drop tackles would be explicitly prohibited under Law 9.13, which covers dangerous tackling. The amendment takes effect on 1 November 2026.
The technique involves a defender grabbing a ball-carrier from the side or behind, swinging around the player, and dropping their body weight onto their legs as they are brought to the ground.
Offenders will face at least a penalty, with the change aimed at reducing the risk of serious lower-limb injuries.
Louw opens up on his Springbok comeback
Louw has returned to the Springbok fold in 2026, earning three Test appearances, including the clash against Australia in Perth. Despite his return to international rugby, the Bulls loose forward says he still has work to do before reaching his previous level.
“I don’t think I’m there yet, to be honest, but just to get an opportunity to be in the Springbok set-up again was massive for me,” Louw said.
His recovery remains a work in progress after the lengthy spell on the sidelines. With World Rugby’s hip-drop tackle ban due to take effect on 1 November, the change comes as Louw prepares for the Bulls’ European campaign and rugby continues to address player safety.
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Jake White takes charge of Fiji ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup
Briefly News previously reported that former Springbok coach Jake White has been appointed Fiji head coach ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. The experienced coach faces an immediate challenge as Fiji prepare for a demanding international schedule.
White’s new role also sets up a reunion with South Africa in 2027, adding an intriguing twist to Fiji’s World Cup preparations. His plans for the Pacific nation and the matches awaiting him are drawing attention.
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Source: Briefly News
