Ou-Boet Strydom
Full names: Louis Jacobus
Date of birth: 27 Oct 1921
Place of birth: Robertson
School: Robertson
Springbok no: 276
Springbok debut province: Northern Transvaal
Physical: 1.83m, 93.9kg
Date of death: 11 May 2003 (Age 81)
Test summary: Tests: 2 Tries: 0
First Test: 16 Jul 1949 Age 27 - Flank against New Zealand at Newlands, Cape Town
Last Test: 13 Aug 1949 Age 27 - Flank against New Zealand at Ellispark, Johannesburg
Test history:
DateAgePositionOpponentVenueResultScoreProvince
16 Jul 1949 27Flank New Zealand Newlands, Cape Town Win: 15-11  N-Tvl
13 Aug 1949 27Flank New Zealand Ellispark, Johannesburg Win: 12-6  N-Tvl

Louis Strydom: ChatGPT

Louis Jacobus “Ou-Boet” Strydom was born on 27 October 1921 in Robertson in the Western Cape, where he attended the local school and began developing the rugged determination that would later define his rugby career. A powerful and industrious loose forward, Strydom’s strength, endurance, and tireless work rate made him a key figure in any pack he represented.

After leaving school, he moved north and joined the emerging Northern Transvaal union, where his performances quickly earned recognition. Known for his uncompromising defence and commitment in the loose, he became one of the cornerstones of the province’s forward play during the late 1940s, a period that laid the foundation for Northern Transvaal’s rise as a major rugby force in later decades.

Strydom’s consistent displays earned him national selection in 1949, a historic year for South African rugby when the Springboks faced the touring New Zealand All Blacks in a four-Test series. He made his debut at Newlands in Cape Town and retained his place for the second Test at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, contributing to South Africa’s famous 4 - 0 series whitewash over the visitors.

Although his Springbok career comprised only those two Tests, “Ou-Boet” Strydom’s role in that victorious campaign secured him a place in the game’s proud history. His reputation as a hard-working, disciplined, and loyal team man made him a respected figure both on and off the field - one of the unsung heroes who helped set the standard for South African loose forwards in the post-war era.