Hip-drop law hits home for Louw

Bulls and Springbok loose forward Elrigh Louw has welcomed World Rugby's decision to ban the hip-drop tackle starting November 1. Under the updated Law 9.13 regarding dangerous tackling, players executing the maneuver will face a minimum sanction of a penalty. Louw suffered a career-threatening knee injury and broken leg from a hip-drop tackle in January 2025 during a match against the Lions, which sidelined him for 10 months.

Speaking ahead of the Bulls' Investec Champions Cup match against Stade Français, Louw stated that the law change is personal to him and praised it as a vital move for player safety. Although he has returned to the Springbok squad and played against Australia, Louw noted that he is still working toward regaining his top form after a challenging recovery.