My ultimate judgment on who Am really is was when he passed the ball to Mapimpi when he had a good chance of scoring a try in a World Cup final; he gave up a once in a lifetime personal opportunity for a bigger team vision. He’s not about taking glory but spreading glory, the best team player, invested in unity, selfless and a giver.
Squidgy, let’s also take a moment to thank you for bringing such unique and thoroughly entertaining insight into rugby analysis! The rugby world is so much richer for your efforts! You too are CLASS. One can only imagine how many hours you put into each video you make and your love and passion for the game and what you do deserves the greatest of respect, irrespective of where your followers come from! I, for one, salute you oh great little one! And yes, Lukhanyo is Ambelievable in every respect! Wonderful skill, deep rugby intellect and great humility.
The most exciting thing for me about Lukhanyo is that he is ushering in a new era of Springbok rugby. Springbok coaches and teams of the past were marked by a fear of mistakes rather than the freedom to play and trust their instincts. They would do what the coaches want no matter what they are seeing on the field, until the coach redirects them at half time. And there is a whole generation following in Lukhanyo and the others footsteps - Fassi, Damien Willemse, Kolbe and the list goes on. Golden Era of Bok rugby in the making.
I agree completely but because of my inherent ability to look at the worst in everything; I do hope this new way doesn't lead players to think they are singularities in a team that can solo the opposing 15 man team. We see this in many team sports which never ends or looks good.
I don't think Am's decisions are as tactically motivated as its made out to be. I think he is perhaps just the most instinctively intelligent player there is. Some players just spot things. But his completeness and calmness of his instinct is unreal. I think his only equal is Kante or Nadal - always looks calm, never flashy and never makes an unforced error. The only to beat Am is to be a better player in that role - he's just the basics of the game done to a level of near perfection.
well its a different form of intelligence id say. Its not the analytical kind. But more a superb awareness to a lot of details that are around him paired with some good instincts (that harris non block) and some split second decision making (that called faf kick for the corner). So he has kinda both. But he doesnt have the typical rugby intelligence on how to dismantle a defense in the next 6 phases.
And it's a fluid kind of instinct. I would say McCaw has great instinctive play too, but more a bulldozer, an intelligent battering ram or most brutish pickpocket - but very instinctive.
@@mabuselamntungwa8947 Tony Kroos is spot on. Zidane popped off the screen. His greatness was obvious even to casuals. Anyone watching football for the first time would point him out as the best player on the pitch. Kroos, like Am, is not for casuals. If you don’t have an eye for them you only realize after the game that they were near perfect in all their decision making and executions. They make the extraordinary look routine.
@@zetristan4525 Lukhanyu? I would bet all the money I don’t have it’s Lukhanyo and it literally means light or enlightenment, it’s a name usually given to boys and represents in that context, amongst other positive things, things such as determination, strength, independence and one to count on or reliability because after all we all use the saying that through everything there will be light at the end of that tunnel of darkness and hardship! So the name represents wisdom, success and a great deal of fortune.
I don't know how Lukhanyo Am manages to run around when his brain is so big. He's still very underrated despite all the praise. The man is just pure class. A modern day Conrad Smith
On that note, @squidgerugby can you please do a retrospective video on What Made Conrad Smith so great? Thanks in advance… yours is the best rugby analysis!
I'm Springboks and my brother is all blacks. We had the exact same discussion this morning and we concurred Am is underrated and hes the modern day Conrad Smith
Did anyone else notice Eben doing almost the exact same things as Am in the try at around 7:50? He pointed out the same space, hanging back and anticipating a breakdown to smash, but he ended up running an awesome (legal) blocking line that left Am unmarked for the try. Teamwork makes the dream work.
So happy someone finally giving Am his fair due. I have been saying for years he is one of the best players I have seen play, but because he does it all so nonchalantly it does not get noticed. Thanks Squidge for bringing Class to the forefront
Witness "the Good the Bad and the Rugby" and Payno reading out Honda's pages and pages of drivel-text every week or the disaster that was their smacky chewing and nose-breathing Domino's Pizza "plug" section.
As a South African and a big fan of your videos , I think this might be my favorite one so far (this after your amazing videos of the Springboks from before and after the 2019 World Cup that I've watched 100 times ). Lukhanyo Am is truly class
Played with the homeboy. Spacial awareness is simply genius. Slick hands. Insane step and turns a small gap into a canyon. Oh, and that no look pass? Got it from me💪🏿💪🏿
Am is one of those players who is just good at everything. Incredible rugby intelligence, great awareness on the field, quick thinking, a complete skillset with passing, running and kicking and brilliant pace too. Add to that his reading of the game in defence and his ability to organise those around him. Brilliant He and Fickou are two of my favourite players to watch. They are very similar, with Fickou being a bit more individualistic (he loves scoring tries like his one against France), whilst Am is unselfish
Absolutely 100%. On the money as always Squidge! I feel like Am is one of the major reasons the boks won in Japan. Many many months before the RWC even began it was clear something had changed within the team. Random players were being brought out to speak to the press (as opposed to always the captain and another senior player), and each one sounding like a captain, owning the game, owning the team. What Rassie did was near miraculous, but it would likely not have been as effective if he did not already have key players in the team who had in their DNA what he was trying to get the rest of the players to do - play for the team, support the team, forget about yourself good or bad and make the next thing you do good for the team. All that talk about not being a windgat, forgetting your mistakes immediately and keeping a proper perspective etc. Direct all your energy, skills, efforts and decisions towards the good of the team. Am, along with Kolisi, has that kind of humility, calmness, selflessness in his bones. It balances his ambition and drive, making them more resilient. They can fight tooth and nail, win or lose and never lose their heads one way or the other. These aren't rugby skills, they are life skills. There are other players like that but none like Am.
My 2 favourite Am moments show he's got personal talent for the game, and a great head for it too. 1) His try saving tackle where he somehow managed to rip the ball away from a certain try duing the lions tour and.. 2) His trying to pull back the offsides players from "that disallowed try" against wales in the 2021 Autumn International.
Very right and I agree although your No.2 may also point to excellent coaching. If you watch the video, you can also see Eben holding players back, and other players immediately acknowledge as if to say, "yeah we remember".. Good coaching. Even when Kolbe receives a kick and Am, Eben and Faf all point to where Kolbe should attack it tells you it's moments they have worked on in a training field. Again good coaching. It explains how quickly Rassie was able to turn the boks around into champions. But I'm not taking away how good Am is. He is Class!!
100%, number 2 was something else. What about the crazy intercept vs Argentina? Anybody remember it? Yes Am is class, we are lucky as Springboks to have him.
I have been away from my country SA for many years now...but watching your videos takes me home and at the end I always almost feeling like crying ... Thank you bro ❤️🙏
I’m glad someone managed to put my feelings about Am into words. Amazes me every time as a rugby player, reads and plays the game like it’s in his veins. Never looks bothered in mistakes and even less so when doing something amazing. A moment that stands out to me is the game against NZ where the ball was bounce passed and had him with his back to the try line and almost on his knees to collect, but instead of collecting immediately he allowed the defence to almost close him down before collecting the ball and giving a simple pass to De Allende running the outside line. So simple but as effective as could be.
It’s these types of videos that make me so thankful for squidge, Am is a generational player in all aspects talked about in this video, but the video allows potentially a wider audience to not just know how good he is, but to actually understand it as well, I’m looking forward to 2025 already where he discusses how paolo garbisi is the greatest human to ever grace this planet, and where I actually believe it!
not just you. He has 23 caps for the bokka... In a time frame where they played 52 games. And i think about 20 caps were in the RWC and 2021. So he was kinda ignored until Rassie came
Haven’t watched this yet but I already agree, he is the most intelligent centre since Conrad Smith retired, an all round rugby player, looking forward to the video.
Posting this video very closely to the first Wales Vs springbok match seems suspicious... It's almost as if you're trying to let whales in on our secrets 😉 great video squidge!
He has been my favourite player for years now, its like he is the deity that created rugby and he plays with the rest of the mortals at a pace where they wont suspect him for not being one of them.
Can we just take a moment to admire how you have changed the face of UA-cam promotional videos? I really hope @squarespace are paying you massive bucks for all the effort you put in mate. super impressive stuff.
Love this video! Also Lukanyo Am enjoys smashing people on defence, if you watch the semi final between England and NZ in the previous world cup. Tuilagi was over the gain line off the first run. In the final, Am smashed him on multiple occasions. In the British and irish Lions tour to SA first Test, that first tackle from Am set the tone for the tour. This guy is a beast. As you said. Pure Class. Love your videos and your analysis of players and teams!
I’ve been saying this for years but your video sums it up perfectly. Occasionally you get these sportsman who don’t seem all that flash but are doing really intelligent work and making everyone around them look better. The casuals don’t see this either and then wonder why the guy gets picked. There was another South African player like this about 20 years ago but was way ahead of his time and the rugby establishment definitely not ready for such a player in those crash boom one dimensional times - his name was Wayne Julies. He didn’t seem to do much but the strange thing was…whenever he played the players around him suddenly looked like world beaters and his inside and outside players would suddenly be too try scorers…yet people though he did nothing. This was a great video - definitely our best center in forever.
The amount of times i've seen Lukhanyo making a gap in the defense just to lure the opponents to run there and the shutting them down is unexplainable! He is truly amazing, thanks for your insight.
And he does all of that with 9.5 fingers. His just so incredibly good. I love how from the moment he got the opportunity to play for the boks he just fit into international level rugby. So excited to watch him over the next 3 years. His only getting started
Bro your Ad skills are unmatched on UA-cam I really hope Squarespace recognises how excellently you rep them 💯🔥👊 Am is on a whole different level he's just so selfless on the field the team is he's only priority no noise 🇿🇦❤️
This video👌🔥 he’s even better than we think, dude is too slick…hopefully he adds more tries to his game and has a superb international season because he’s been among the best since 2019…
Mate I cannot explain the admiration I have for you. Keep your amazing content coming and your unique absolutely phenomenal view on rugby coming through. You are a trend setter and I am a HUGE FAN. thank you
I dont think Am is consciously making all these tactical decisions, I think he just has a natural propensity for the game. He might not analyze each play as deeply as Squidge has said, but his play style and subconscious knowledge and muscle memory has allowed him to seemingly just always be 'there', right where he is needed.
It's the second try in RWC19 for me...he gives Itoje a little butt punch to create time and space to pop pass it to Du Toit who gives it to Kolbe in space...brilliant use of his cushion
I found myself asking myself "Why am I not subscribed to this channel?" Great analysis mate. I lost my mind when I saw that behind the back pass for the 1st time. I just died. Almost brought tears to my eyes.
Squidge .. apart from delivering an unbelievable analysis of one of the great centers of our time (and incidentally one of my favorite players ever) you are creating the gold standard in rugby analysis. I wouldn't be surprised if Eddie Jones were subscribed to your channel to learn from you. THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU DO. Long may it last.
You cannot beat Xhosa Commentary haha, it's gonna be lit during the Wales test games. Am is the most intelligent player in rugby at the moment. He is calm but present. Great video again :).. Next is Siya Kolisi, PSDT and maybe Mapimpi please
I’ve been saying that Am is the best centre in the world for a while. People sometimes look at me oddly because he is not the typical flash centre. Your analysis explains exactly what I have known deep down, but couldn’t quite put my finger on why. Thank you. I (Lukhanyo) Am Legend!
Prior to the Boks winning the 2019 world cup, I was skeptical that the Springboks would once again have a centre pair as good as Jean De Villiers and Jacques Fourie. Damian De Allende and Lukhanyo Am are a brilliant pair and both have world cup silverware to prove it. 😁
This video is definitely one of my favourite rugby videos, you summed it up so well and spotted and highlighted things we only had a feeling was happening with this hugely talented and in my opinion very underrated player. He really is brilliant beyond understanding.
Top tier content and analysis. As a casual rugby watcher (highlights only) this gives immeasurable insight for the common rugby watcher like me. You that feeling when you know someone is good by you can’t say how or why? This video answers that question!
Thank you for adding images and analysis and words to what I sensed and have been enjoying. Would thread into another who played Sharks then Bokke, André Joubert.
In the kind of clever players that play more for the team than for themselves, Gael Fickou is not bad either, no? They are the spiritual sons of Conrad Smith, I can't wait to see them against each other in this autumn test-match!
I'm a Creative Director in the advertising industry and that is the best Squarespace ad of all time. It goes without saying that the analysis is brilliant too.
Thank you for the video. It's hard for people to see the efforts of players such as Lukhanyo Am. Thank you for explaining and making people realize his contribution to the Springboks.
I dunno, I'm still a big believer in having the captain in the forwards. It's where the game is won or lost and if those guys aren't firing then you can't be in their ear as much if you're out in the backline, where you probably aren't seeing a lot of ball either at that point and can't do a lot with your play to inspire as a result.
Seeing a fellow South African being analyzed in a manner reminiscent of dissecting Einstein, albeit in the realm of sports, is truly motivating for those of us who grew up aspiring to achieve greatness someday. Respect to you my brother and respect to the sport. Amandla. #LukhanyoAM
Your videos are always brilliant, but this one was extra special. I agree 100%. I am a Sharks and Springbok supported, so I am fortunate as he is always playing for the team I support. I have always loved the way he plays and those little details that go un-noticed including how he never played for himself, which you highlighted so well, thank you!! I do hope he and his family get to watch this, a true sportsman!
Squidge - you are outstanding, your analysis'. Thank you for being a true rugby mind and covering so passionately and entertainingly beyond club and country bias. CLASS!
My ultimate judgment on who Am really is was when he passed the ball to Mapimpi when he had a good chance of scoring a try in a World Cup final; he gave up a once in a lifetime personal opportunity for a bigger team vision. He’s not about taking glory but spreading glory, the best team player, invested in unity, selfless and a giver.
Serving leader
haven't watched the video yet but yes
Ads haven't finished but I've already liked it.
Agreed
Was thinking same thing, Eben for 2de plce💪🏻
Squidgy, let’s also take a moment to thank you for bringing such unique and thoroughly entertaining insight into rugby analysis! The rugby world is so much richer for your efforts! You too are CLASS. One can only imagine how many hours you put into each video you make and your love and passion for the game and what you do deserves the greatest of respect, irrespective of where your followers come from! I, for one, salute you oh great little one! And yes, Lukhanyo is Ambelievable in every respect! Wonderful skill, deep rugby intellect and great humility.
Consistency, intelligence, making a impact on every game played, is what makes a player great, and in that respect, Am is indeed a cut above the rest.
His hustle and motor make it seem like hes everywhere on the field. So much fun to watch
Have you heard of Antoine Dupont?
@@tommyc5341 what about him?
@@menzimngadi6793 What a stupid question, no offense.
@@oxartis3715 In the context of what is being said about AM, bright spark.
The most exciting thing for me about Lukhanyo is that he is ushering in a new era of Springbok rugby. Springbok coaches and teams of the past were marked by a fear of mistakes rather than the freedom to play and trust their instincts. They would do what the coaches want no matter what they are seeing on the field, until the coach redirects them at half time. And there is a whole generation following in Lukhanyo and the others footsteps - Fassi, Damien Willemse, Kolbe and the list goes on. Golden Era of Bok rugby in the making.
And Arendse 😉
I agree completely but because of my inherent ability to look at the worst in everything; I do hope this new way doesn't lead players to think they are singularities in a team that can solo the opposing 15 man team. We see this in many team sports which never ends or looks good.
Damien doesn't pass too much. I don't rate him much at centre.
Damien Willemse that is...
However there's a guy, Sibahle "Rabz" Maxwane. He plays for the Lions. You'd enjoy his abilities on the field.
As someone from the Eastern Cape, Xhosa native like Am, this made me very emotional. Thank you mate, keep doing what you do
Awe my fellow south african ... stay blessed brother
iDyan 😎
I was balling myself at one point, pride does even do it justice.
Also as an aside: if anyone reading this haven't heard Xhosa commentary ... Do yourself a favour and go listen to it. The passion is just 🔥🔥🔥
As a boertjie that isiXhosa commentary gave me goosebumps.
He is by far the best TEAM player the Boks have ever had.
PSDT
dont forget fourie du preez
"ever" takes in a huuuuge amount of ground.
Suffice it to say, he is one of the best ever.
By far? Ever? How old are you? 🤣
@Sammay Maybe you shouldn't be mentioning your age, fam
I don't think Am's decisions are as tactically motivated as its made out to be. I think he is perhaps just the most instinctively intelligent player there is. Some players just spot things. But his completeness and calmness of his instinct is unreal. I think his only equal is Kante or Nadal - always looks calm, never flashy and never makes an unforced error. The only to beat Am is to be a better player in that role - he's just the basics of the game done to a level of near perfection.
Well said
Vvd
well its a different form of intelligence id say. Its not the analytical kind. But more a superb awareness to a lot of details that are around him paired with some good instincts (that harris non block) and some split second decision making (that called faf kick for the corner). So he has kinda both. But he doesnt have the typical rugby intelligence on how to dismantle a defense in the next 6 phases.
100% agreed and well said. My comparison of him in football is Iniesta. Just pure class
And it's a fluid kind of instinct. I would say McCaw has great instinctive play too, but more a bulldozer, an intelligent battering ram or most brutish pickpocket - but very instinctive.
I met him in person once! I was struck by how calm and nice he was
Same here, I met him when he was still playing for the Southern Kings. What a great guy.
Zinadine Zinadine of rugby, he's such a joy to watch. Always plotting behind the scenes like an assassin.
100% I would add Don Andres Iniesta as well
nha He is more like a Toni Kroos.
no he's more like ozil of rugby, never seems to panic or in a hurry
@@mabuselamntungwa8947 Tony Kroos is spot on. Zidane popped off the screen. His greatness was obvious even to casuals. Anyone watching football for the first time would point him out as the best player on the pitch.
Kroos, like Am, is not for casuals. If you don’t have an eye for them you only realize after the game that they were near perfect in all their decision making and executions. They make the extraordinary look routine.
@@mabuselamntungwa8947 definitely like Kroos 🔥🔥🔥 always turning the screws subtly
"I Lukhanyo think, therefor I Lukhanyo Am" is my new mantra for life.
Well done
Hahahaha love it!!!
"I Lukhanyo[u] think, therefor[e] I Lukhanyo[u] Are".
We lookandyou adapt? :P
@@zetristan4525 Lukhanyu? I would bet all the money I don’t have it’s Lukhanyo and it literally means light or enlightenment, it’s a name usually given to boys and represents in that context, amongst other positive things, things such as determination, strength, independence and one to count on or reliability because after all we all use the saying that through everything there will be light at the end of that tunnel of darkness and hardship! So the name represents wisdom, success and a great deal of fortune.
@@Mntungwa77 I be light, therefore I Am.
Havuyani better puns around Lukhanyo, as written in the above sentence?💡🇿🇦🌍🌌🌱
I don't know how Lukhanyo Am manages to run around when his brain is so big. He's still very underrated despite all the praise. The man is just pure class. A modern day Conrad Smith
On that note, @squidgerugby can you please do a retrospective video on What Made Conrad Smith so great? Thanks in advance… yours is the best rugby analysis!
@@aar1967 I’m so down for this, please Squidge! Was watching this video thinking about Conrad Smith the whole time
I'm Springboks and my brother is all blacks. We had the exact same discussion this morning and we concurred Am is underrated and hes the modern day Conrad Smith
Did anyone else notice Eben doing almost the exact same things as Am in the try at around 7:50? He pointed out the same space, hanging back and anticipating a breakdown to smash, but he ended up running an awesome (legal) blocking line that left Am unmarked for the try.
Teamwork makes the dream work.
No.
This Springbok team could be the most complete we've seen yet.
This is not about Eben.. go make your own vid
Very cool.
If Lukhanyo is truly the best player in the world, then why isn't Squarespace the Lukhanyo of websites makers ? Hmmmm
Because squarespace is more flashy so your content sticks more out :D
Something smells like jealousy 😂
So happy someone finally giving Am his fair due. I have been saying for years he is one of the best players I have seen play, but because he does it all so nonchalantly it does not get noticed. Thanks Squidge for bringing Class to the forefront
Lukhanyo Am is like the gearbox on a Hilux.
Hahahahaha dudeeee the wife and killled almost woke up because of my laughter,,, love the analogy 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾
His work to put Kolbe in space and get him the ball for the winning try in the WC final was unbelievable and so underrated
I'm a New Zealander, I freaking love Am. Think I first saw him in 2018 and 2019. Best 13 in the world and yes Squidgy, he is reinventing the game.
I really hope Squarespace appreciates how you work their ad into your content. Definitely the most astute way I've seen this done by any UA-camr.
Witness "the Good the Bad and the Rugby" and Payno reading out Honda's pages and pages of drivel-text every week or the disaster that was their smacky chewing and nose-breathing Domino's Pizza "plug" section.
also the most annoying Ive ever seen with cut interplay of replay footage
I guess you haven't seen any @HarryMack videos then.
Yes. I usually just scroll to the end of all adds. I watched this one from start to finish...
Love your work Squidgy. Shout out for acknowledging the isixhosa commentators as well. Can’t wait for the international season
As a South African and a big fan of your videos , I think this might be my favorite one so far (this after your amazing videos of the Springboks from before and after the 2019 World Cup that I've watched 100 times ). Lukhanyo Am is truly class
Played with the homeboy. Spacial awareness is simply genius. Slick hands. Insane step and turns a small gap into a canyon. Oh, and that no look pass? Got it from me💪🏿💪🏿
I gave a like before i even watched because that's my favorite player right there😀 lukhanyo obi1 kinobi Am
Am is one of those players who is just good at everything. Incredible rugby intelligence, great awareness on the field, quick thinking, a complete skillset with passing, running and kicking and brilliant pace too. Add to that his reading of the game in defence and his ability to organise those around him. Brilliant
He and Fickou are two of my favourite players to watch. They are very similar, with Fickou being a bit more individualistic (he loves scoring tries like his one against France), whilst Am is unselfish
Touche'!!!
I would really like to know how fickau managed to score a try against france...
@@hennoliebenberg5391 during warmups
Absolutely 100%. On the money as always Squidge! I feel like Am is one of the major reasons the boks won in Japan. Many many months before the RWC even began it was clear something had changed within the team. Random players were being brought out to speak to the press (as opposed to always the captain and another senior player), and each one sounding like a captain, owning the game, owning the team. What Rassie did was near miraculous, but it would likely not have been as effective if he did not already have key players in the team who had in their DNA what he was trying to get the rest of the players to do - play for the team, support the team, forget about yourself good or bad and make the next thing you do good for the team. All that talk about not being a windgat, forgetting your mistakes immediately and keeping a proper perspective etc. Direct all your energy, skills, efforts and decisions towards the good of the team. Am, along with Kolisi, has that kind of humility, calmness, selflessness in his bones. It balances his ambition and drive, making them more resilient. They can fight tooth and nail, win or lose and never lose their heads one way or the other. These aren't rugby skills, they are life skills. There are other players like that but none like Am.
"These are not just skills. These are life skills." Brilliant, Terrance, brilliant!
My 2 favourite Am moments show he's got personal talent for the game, and a great head for it too.
1) His try saving tackle where he somehow managed to rip the ball away from a certain try duing the lions tour and..
2) His trying to pull back the offsides players from "that disallowed try" against wales in the 2021 Autumn International.
Snap, number 2 was crazy
Very right and I agree although your No.2 may also point to excellent coaching. If you watch the video, you can also see Eben holding players back, and other players immediately acknowledge as if to say, "yeah we remember".. Good coaching. Even when Kolbe receives a kick and Am, Eben and Faf all point to where Kolbe should attack it tells you it's moments they have worked on in a training field. Again good coaching. It explains how quickly Rassie was able to turn the boks around into champions. But I'm not taking away how good Am is. He is Class!!
100%, number 2 was something else. What about the crazy intercept vs Argentina? Anybody remember it?
Yes Am is class, we are lucky as Springboks to have him.
That 2nd play was crazy....asked myself what he was doing, realized afterwards during the replay...
I have been away from my country SA for many years now...but watching your videos takes me home and at the end I always almost feeling like crying ... Thank you bro ❤️🙏
Are you going to watch the game on Saturday?
I completely agree, a wonderful place, incredible people and potential, badly led.
@@chris5240 Yes
not a south african in any way, i agree he is such a great player, who is underrated because he is not flashy
I’m glad someone managed to put my feelings about Am into words. Amazes me every time as a rugby player, reads and plays the game like it’s in his veins. Never looks bothered in mistakes and even less so when doing something amazing.
A moment that stands out to me is the game against NZ where the ball was bounce passed and had him with his back to the try line and almost on his knees to collect, but instead of collecting immediately he allowed the defence to almost close him down before collecting the ball and giving a simple pass to De Allende running the outside line. So simple but as effective as could be.
It’s these types of videos that make me so thankful for squidge, Am is a generational player in all aspects talked about in this video, but the video allows potentially a wider audience to not just know how good he is, but to actually understand it as well, I’m looking forward to 2025 already where he discusses how paolo garbisi is the greatest human to ever grace this planet, and where I actually believe it!
To answer your question: YES , he is. He's a genius!
DuPont is better
@@theovonhalasz9738 Alot of people are saying, ahead of the weekend, that Kerevi is the best centre in the world.
@@theovonhalasz9738 straight rubbish mate 🗑
David havili bruh
I'm so embarrassed that I missed so much about how good this player is before watching Squidge's videos, and I'm SA'n
not just you. He has 23 caps for the bokka... In a time frame where they played 52 games. And i think about 20 caps were in the RWC and 2021. So he was kinda ignored until Rassie came
@@McDJNomi He makes it look so easy you can miss the intimacy of his play
Great work Squidge! He certainly is a highly skilled and humble sportsman. Glad he’s on my team…. My wife is welsh though, it’s always a tough time😜
Haven’t watched this yet but I already agree, he is the most intelligent centre since Conrad Smith retired, an all round rugby player, looking forward to the video.
That ad was so smooth Holy crap🤣 I didn't even realize it was one until halfway through
So glad you included the clip with the Xhosa commentary, it's brilliant!
Posting this video very closely to the first Wales Vs springbok match seems suspicious... It's almost as if you're trying to let whales in on our secrets 😉 great video squidge!
He has been my favourite player for years now, its like he is the deity that created rugby and he plays with the rest of the mortals at a pace where they wont suspect him for not being one of them.
well said
I like that,, I really like that,, splendidly put
Yes. This is exactly how to describe it!👌🏾
Can we just take a moment to admire how you have changed the face of UA-cam promotional videos? I really hope @squarespace are paying you massive bucks for all the effort you put in mate. super impressive stuff.
Love this video! Also Lukanyo Am enjoys smashing people on defence, if you watch the semi final between England and NZ in the previous world cup. Tuilagi was over the gain line off the first run. In the final, Am smashed him on multiple occasions. In the British and irish Lions tour to SA first Test, that first tackle from Am set the tone for the tour. This guy is a beast. As you said. Pure Class. Love your videos and your analysis of players and teams!
Is the answer "never being high fived by Mapimpi but not letting it get him down?"
🤣🤣
I looooove Lukhanyo. Proud South African/Canadian here 🙌🏾
That World Cup try, you can actually pick hear that Am tells Mapimpi to kick (khaba) the ball in Xhosa - both players mother language
LOL I also saw that ‘Khaba! Khaba!’ 😂
Its an Am masterclass
I’ve been saying this for years but your video sums it up perfectly. Occasionally you get these sportsman who don’t seem all that flash but are doing really intelligent work and making everyone around them look better. The casuals don’t see this either and then wonder why the guy gets picked. There was another South African player like this about 20 years ago but was way ahead of his time and the rugby establishment definitely not ready for such a player in those crash boom one dimensional times - his name was Wayne Julies. He didn’t seem to do much but the strange thing was…whenever he played the players around him suddenly looked like world beaters and his inside and outside players would suddenly be too try scorers…yet people though he did nothing.
This was a great video - definitely our best center in forever.
just loved the way Wayne Julies Ball Movement. his Passes was of such a nature that it sends his team mates into gaps and spaces
The amount of times i've seen Lukhanyo making a gap in the defense just to lure the opponents to run there and the shutting them down is unexplainable! He is truly amazing, thanks for your insight.
And he does all of that with 9.5 fingers. His just so incredibly good. I love how from the moment he got the opportunity to play for the boks he just fit into international level rugby. So excited to watch him over the next 3 years. His only getting started
Bro your Ad skills are unmatched on UA-cam I really hope Squarespace recognises how excellently you rep them 💯🔥👊
Am is on a whole different level he's just so selfless on the field the team is he's only priority no noise 🇿🇦❤️
Thanks Squidge, love the energy in these videos. Good one for acknowledging the isixhosa commentators as well. Cant wait for the world cup!
Where he pulls two players from a ruck, that was crazy reading of the game.
I said it last year, and I will say it again this year. Am is one of the most underrated athletes in the world.
Currently watching this video from Schipol airport in Amsterdam on my way to Loftus for the Wales game tomorrow. 💯🇿🇦🏉
Nice, philiosophical take :) For me, Rugby is the intersection between wrestling, athleticism, attrition, and chess. Am is a chess master.
This video👌🔥 he’s even better than we think, dude is too slick…hopefully he adds more tries to his game and has a superb international season because he’s been among the best since 2019…
Damn straight Qinebe! Whatsup 🙂
Mate I cannot explain the admiration I have for you. Keep your amazing content coming and your unique absolutely phenomenal view on rugby coming through. You are a trend setter and I am a HUGE FAN. thank you
I dont think Am is consciously making all these tactical decisions, I think he just has a natural propensity for the game. He might not analyze each play as deeply as Squidge has said, but his play style and subconscious knowledge and muscle memory has allowed him to seemingly just always be 'there', right where he is needed.
Well that would mean he is conscious of his decision making
It's the second try in RWC19 for me...he gives Itoje a little butt punch to create time and space to pop pass it to Du Toit who gives it to Kolbe in space...brilliant use of his cushion
This was an absolutely amazing critical analysis of the most amazing player on the planet. Thanks squidge🤩😁
Finally a justified thoughtful commentary on my favourite centre off all time. Selfless Class.
SquareSpace really needs to be paying you more... These are the only add reads I don't tend to skip over. Well done.
LOOOVE THIS! Your attention to detail is incredible, probably the best analysis video i've ever seen.
That "excited Am Commentary" clip cracked me up... and made me miss home!
thank you, a great spotlight on what I still somehow feel is still an underrated player
I found myself asking myself "Why am I not subscribed to this channel?" Great analysis mate. I lost my mind when I saw that behind the back pass for the 1st time. I just died. Almost brought tears to my eyes.
Thanks for this Squidge! Lukhanyo is class.
Such a rare player. The type that is not playing the rugby, but owns it entirely. Great review! Cheers man!
Squidge .. apart from delivering an unbelievable analysis of one of the great centers of our time (and incidentally one of my favorite players ever) you are creating the gold standard in rugby analysis. I wouldn't be surprised if Eddie Jones were subscribed to your channel to learn from you. THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU DO. Long may it last.
Well we already know one head coach watches Squidge, wouldn't be surprised if there was a few more!
@@darren806 a certain famous waterboy/ rugby director no less 😄
You cannot beat Xhosa Commentary haha, it's gonna be lit during the Wales test games. Am is the most intelligent player in rugby at the moment. He is calm but present. Great video again :).. Next is Siya Kolisi, PSDT and maybe Mapimpi please
Great video, great player. Also, I love how Xhosa commentary is having a bit of a moment at the moment.
As a life long Springbok supporter I have regarded Am as a truly special player for years now , I agree 100% that he is in a class of his own.
I’ve been saying that Am is the best centre in the world for a while. People sometimes look at me oddly because he is not the typical flash centre. Your analysis explains exactly what I have known deep down, but couldn’t quite put my finger on why. Thank you. I (Lukhanyo) Am Legend!
Prior to the Boks winning the 2019 world cup, I was skeptical that the Springboks would once again have a centre pair as good as Jean De Villiers and Jacques Fourie.
Damian De Allende and Lukhanyo Am are a brilliant pair and both have world cup silverware to prove it. 😁
This video is definitely one of my favourite rugby videos, you summed it up so well and spotted and highlighted things we only had a feeling was happening with this hugely talented and in my opinion very underrated player. He really is brilliant beyond understanding.
More of these please squidge, I absolutely love it!
You had to release this just before the Wales game Squidge
pppprrrrrrr haaayayayajaaaaaiiiiiii
Its not predicable play tho... all flow state.. cant study this to prevent it.
Consistency is key with him. Always performs. No off days.
Top tier content and analysis. As a casual rugby watcher (highlights only) this gives immeasurable insight for the common rugby watcher like me. You that feeling when you know someone is good by you can’t say how or why? This video answers that question!
Thank you for adding images and analysis and words to what I sensed and have been enjoying. Would thread into another who played Sharks then Bokke, André Joubert.
Thank you Squidge🙏 so glad he's a Bok🔥💚💛🇿🇦
Thank you Chief Squidge. This was long overdue. He deserves it.
Been saying son long he is the best outside centre that South Africa has to offer. Nice working your sponsorship in your video.
Bro you're the best sports analyser I've ever listened to and your attention to detail is insane 👌
I love Am's casual pop passes - either played a lot of touch rugby or hot potatoe but's so chill like "here this is yours now"
The best analysis around. Again.
Yeah Am is such a humble hero in his play and that makes it even more spectacular
In the kind of clever players that play more for the team than for themselves, Gael Fickou is not bad either, no? They are the spiritual sons of Conrad Smith, I can't wait to see them against each other in this autumn test-match!
Absolutely loved this, thanks for the top tier entertainment Squidge ❤️
I'm a Creative Director in the advertising industry and that is the best Squarespace ad of all time. It goes without saying that the analysis is brilliant too.
Thank you for the video. It's hard for people to see the efforts of players such as Lukhanyo Am. Thank you for explaining and making people realize his contribution to the Springboks.
I only really came to see you creatively plug Squarespace again, the Am video was a bonus. You really are a national treasure.
Like the song in the background at the end of the video, Squidge, "you know what's up" when it comes to these rugby streets 😌 great vid
Coming back to this video after the All Blacks game and YES, he is the best!
Hopefully he can take over the captaincy from Kolisi if he decides to call it a day at test level. Most level-headed leader imaginable 😄🇿🇦
Am is already Kolisi's captain at the Sharks.
I dunno, I'm still a big believer in having the captain in the forwards. It's where the game is won or lost and if those guys aren't firing then you can't be in their ear as much if you're out in the backline, where you probably aren't seeing a lot of ball either at that point and can't do a lot with your play to inspire as a result.
Kitshoff,Coetzee or Eben
think hes the sort of player better of not as captain and focusing on when times on
I think Eben is the vice captain
Awesome video as always! Lukhanyo Am makes me think of Conrad Smith or Will Greenwood rather than a whole new kind of player though.
Who?
Seeing a fellow South African being analyzed in a manner reminiscent of dissecting Einstein, albeit in the realm of sports, is truly motivating for those of us who grew up aspiring to achieve greatness someday.
Respect to you my brother and respect to the sport.
Amandla.
#LukhanyoAM
Your videos are always brilliant, but this one was extra special. I agree 100%. I am a Sharks and Springbok supported, so I am fortunate as he is always playing for the team I support. I have always loved the way he plays and those little details that go un-noticed including how he never played for himself, which you highlighted so well, thank you!! I do hope he and his family get to watch this, a true sportsman!
The Mandela of rugby. Cool, calm, yet ruthless when needed!
Squidge - you are outstanding, your analysis'. Thank you for being a true rugby mind and covering so passionately and entertainingly beyond club and country bias. CLASS!
He's the Andrea Pirlo and Paolo Maldini of rugby... Which is astonishing if you really know football
I like the maldini comp: fitness, insticts, tactical and technical ability
What?
More like Xavi Alonso type also, dlala le chap
This is such high praise, wow!!! (You're spot on!)
Watching this again coz it’s fabulous and gotta love the Am
I miss the player analysis of lesser sung players please do more of these squidge
Another great video. Its great how well you present a case and always turn in quality commentary. Am is class as is this channel.