Lions seek fresh blood in cubs
Coach Swys de Bruin has turned to some of the Lions’ cubs to restore a spring to his team’s step in Super Rugby this season.
The Lions have lost consecutive matches to the Stormers and the Bulls and are at the foot of the SA conference.
They are now in territory they have not been in since the franchise’s days of struggle predating their temporary exit from the tournament.
As expected, De Bruin has rung the changes for Saturday’s clash against the Jaguares at Ellis Park.
Spring-heeled centre Wandisile Simelane will partner with Franco Naude in midfield‚ Sylvian Mahuza slots in at wing‚ Ross Cronjé is in at scrumhalf‚ Kwagga Smith moves to number eight, making way for Vincent Tshituka at number seven‚ while Ruan Vermaak comes in at lock at the expense of Stephan Lewies.
New recruits on the bench are Nathan McBeth‚ James Venter and Tyrone Green.
The latter has been bracketed with Gianni Lombard.
The changes are bold considering the experience the Jaguares will bring to Ellis Park.
De Bruin‚ however‚ is seeking a reaction after a disappointing loss to the Bulls.
The Lions‚ who are the current national U21 champions‚ have reason to be optimistic about their tyros.
“They are unreal, some of these guys coming through‚” De Bruin said.
“Some of these guys will become household names.”
He is pleading patience as the youngsters find their feet.
“I want to ask the fans to back them. I’m very excited about our youth.”