Ivan van Rooyen, the head coach for the Lions, has unveiled a robust 31-man squad drilled and ready to take on the Sharks in a pre-season friendly at Ellis Park this upcoming Friday. In what promises to be an exhilarating precursor to the 2026-27 Vodacom URC season, which will commence with a game against Leinster, the defending champions, the Lions seem poised to deliver a formidable showdown.
Among the hefty lineup, Springboks like Boan Venter and Sikhumbuzo Notshe have been rallied to strengthen the forwards, while the backline sees the inclusion of Junior Springbok standouts Haashim Pead and Ethan Adams, with the latter recently making his senior debut. These seasoned and budding talents are set to elevate the team's performance this Friday.
Additionally, the squad benefits from the strategic inclusion of off-season recruits such as Hyron Andrews and JP du Preez, further amplifying the team’s dynamics. Van Rooyen praised the new additions, noting, "We've integrated some strategic off-season signings that I believe will provide us with a significant edge."
"Our last game put us through our paces and highlighted areas we've since worked hard to refine." - Ivan van Rooyen
The stakes are high following a gutsy but ultimately unvictorious battle against the All Blacks in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour, coupled with a recent semi-final loss to Griquas in the Currie Cup. The Lions are eager to turn the tide with this warm-up.
The team ensemble for Friday includes:
Forwards:
1. Hyron Andrews
2. PJ Botha
3. Morne Brandon
4. Ruan Delport
5. JP du Preez
6. Batho Hlekani
7. Francke Horn
8. SJ Kotze
9. Sebastian Lombard
10. Siba Mahashe
11. Sikhumbuzo Notshe
12. Etienne Oosthuizen
13. JC Pretorius
14. Siba Qoma
15. RF Schoeman
16. Dylan Sjoblom
17. Boan Venter
Backs:
18. Ethan Adams
19. Boeta Chamberlain
20. Erich Cronje
21. Jason Hugo
22. Rynhardt Jonker
23. Daniel Kasende
24. Richard Kriel
25. Rabz Maxwane
26. Bronson Mills
27. Kelly Mpeku
28. Haashim Pead
29. Keagan Smith
30. Chris Smith
31. Nico Steyn
As the Lions gear up to reclaim their pride against the Sharks, all eyes will be on Ellis Park this Friday. It’s more than just a game; it's a chance to set the tone for a season where only the best will thrive.
