Former Springbok flyhalf Derick Hougaard has drawn widespread concern and an outpouring of support across the South African rugby community following an emotional social media post.
Affectionately known as the “Liefling van Loftus,” the 43-year-old remains one of the most naturally gifted flyhalves of his generation. From his rise during the 2003 Rugby World Cup to his pivotal role in the Bulls’ 2007 Super 14 glory, Hougaard’s career delivered unforgettable moments on the Test and domestic stages.
Springbok Career Overview
Hougaard made his international debut during the 2003 Rugby World Cup in Australia, quickly establishing himself as a reliable goal-kicker and tactical kicker. Over a four-year Test span, he earned 8 caps for South Africa and accumulated 69 international points.
Test Caps: 8 Points Scored: 69
Tries: 2 Conversions: 13
Penalties: 10 Drop Goals: 1
- Springbok Number: #753
- Test Debut: 11 October 2003 vs Uruguay (Perth)
- Final Test: 14 July 2007 vs New Zealand (Christchurch)
- Test Record: 8 Played (4 Wins, 4 Losses)
Complete Test Match Breakdown
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Result | Score | Hougaard’s Points Contribution |
| 11 Oct 2003 | Uruguay | Subiaco Oval, Perth | Won | 72–6 | 1 Conversion (2 pts) |
| 18 Oct 2003 | England | Subiaco Oval, Perth | Lost | 6–25 | — |
| 24 Oct 2003 | Georgia | Sydney Football Stadium | Won | 46–19 | 1 Try, 4 Conversions, 1 Penalty (16 pts) |
| 01 Nov 2003 | Samoa | Brisbane Stadium | Won | 60–10 | 1 Try, 5 Conversions, 1 Penalty, 1 Drop Goal (21 pts) |
| 08 Nov 2003 | New Zealand | Docklands Stadium, Melbourne | Lost | 9–29 | 3 Penalties (9 pts) |
| 09 Jun 2007 | Samoa | Ellis Park, Johannesburg | Won | 35–8 | 1 Conversion, 2 Penalties (8 pts) |
| 07 Jul 2007 | Australia | Stadium Australia, Sydney | Lost | 17–25 | 2 Conversions, 1 Penalty (7 pts) |
| 14 Jul 2007 | New Zealand | Lancaster Park, Christchurch | Lost |
