Rassie Erasmus, the SA Rugby Director of Rugby, has included 17 uncapped players in his first Springbok squad of 43 for the four Tests next month, against Wales in the USA and Castle Lager Incoming Series at home against England.
For a rugby team that’s unbeaten at Ellis Park all season, it’s strange to see the Lions going into their Super Rugby semi-final against the Hurricanes as the underdogs.
Speak to any South African Super Rugby coach and he will give a guarded response on how well his team is faring in the competition so far.
The marvellously watchable Lions already have a very strong case now for claiming to be the best side in the franchise’s history over a single season, writes Rob Houwing.
A showdown looms in the Super Rugby final between Lions stand-in captain Jaco Kriel and All Black flanker Ardie Savea, younger brother of speedy winger Julian.
The stage is set for a potentially thrilling semi-final at Ellis Park between the Lions and the Highlanders if past history and current form is anything to go by.