Hottie Louw will play in the Blue Bulls' Currie Cup campaign

The Scarlets will review the situation following the conclusion of the Currie Cup in mid-October.

The 30-year-old joined the Welsh region from French side Clermont Auvergne on a two-year deal in February 2005.

"I have returned to compete for a place in the Springbok side and the only way to do this is to play in the Currie Cup," Louw told the Blue Bulls website.

"I would like to be in contention for a place in next year's World Cup squad.

I believe Hottie Louw still has a role to play at international level Blue Bulls coach Heyneke Meyer

"Depending on my inclusion in the Springbok touring squad at the end of this year, I will weigh up my options with regards to returning to the UK."

Louw has won just three South Africa caps, all in 2002, his first coming against Wales.

Blue Bulls coach Heyneke Meyer confirmed that Louw, a former Stormers player, will be joining the Loftus Versfeld-based side within the next two weeks.

"We have lost three locks to the Springboks and Louw's experience will be invaluable to us," Meyer said.

"He will also be able to share this experience with the young, talented locks in the province, which will aid their development.