Italia's next Test star - Luhandre Luus

The connection between South Africans and Italy in rugby goes way back. You think Nick Mallett, Quintin Geldenhuys among the notable connections, now Luhandre Luus.

Italy managed to finish bottom of the U20 Six Nations, but came a whisker close to beating Wales. The Italian sides have continued to improve and add quality. When they finally nail down and exorcise the demon that is inconsistency- BEWARE!! Benedict Chanakira met up with upcoming star; Luhandre Luus. Luhandre spoke on; Paarl Gimnasium, Sharks Rugby Academy and his aspirations to become an Italian household name!

Hi Luhandre Luus, how are you?

Hi Benedict I’m very well thanks and yourself?

Who is Luhandre?

I’m South African born and I grew up in Cape Town. I completed my school in 2013 and I am a proud old boy of the best rugby school in SA “Paarl Gymnasium’’.

How did you find yourself in Italy? What inspired you to play rugby in Italy?

Well last year I was with the Sharks Academy and I played for the Sharks u19 in the Currie Cup. I am half Italian, so I got an invite to come and play for the Italian U/19 side that was touring to Cape Town at that time so I took the opportunity.

How often do you come back to South Africa?

I go back to South Africa every 10 months.

Who has influenced your rugby career the most?

My parents have supported me and I have to give a special mention to the coaches at Paarl Gimnasium. The Italian passion played a part in inspiring me as a player!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself playing for the Italian National team at Test level and being a successful professional that can inspire other young athletes to “Never Give Up” and to be a motivation.

Which player do you look up to?

The player I look up to is definitely Duane Vermeulen. Duane is a hard worker; he plays every game as if it is his last. He is also a great leader on and off the field.

As the JWC looms, the Italian u20 side had a disappointing Six Nations. The last gasp loss to Italy must have hurt. What are your thoughts on your World Cup chances?

Yes we had a bit of a struggle in the Six Nations but as a team definitely became better and stronger every game and we know what to work on as individuals and as a team. The last game against Wales was an unlucky loss but a good and positive way to end the tournament. My thoughts on the World Cup are positive because I know our team has a lot of talent and can go far. It’s not going to be easy but it will be a great privilege to representing your country at the JWC.  

In what direction do you think Italian Rugby is going?

Italian rugby is definitely becoming stronger and better every year because it is spreading all over the country and more people are becoming interested in the sport and want to learn how to play it. With the JWC being played in our own back yard it’s a great opportunity for people all over Italy to come and watch the games.

Thank you for your time Luhandre!

It’s a pleasure!