Lions retain Springboks hopefuls

The Lions announced a string of retentions of key players late last year that will surely delight coach Cash van Rooyen.

Among those is Springboks hopeful, Sanele Nohamba whose recent shift to flyhalf has proven an inspired move for the Lions.

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RETENTION OF SPRINGBOK PROSPECTS IS GREAT NEWS

Lions captain Marius Louw, wing Edwill van der Merwe, Francke Horn, Morne van der Berg and Asenathi Ntlabakaye also penned contract extensions.

Forwards coach Barend Pieterse said the retentions were a testament to the Lions franchise’s current state.

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Quan Horn, Rabz Maxwane, Reinhard Nothnagel, PJ Botha, Ruan Venter, Morne Brandon, Renzo du Plessis, Morgan Naude, Raynard Roets, Ruan Delport, Ruben Schoeman, Ruan Strauli, Rhynardt Rijnsburger and Manual Rass complete an impressive list of extended contracts.

All the contracts run through to the end of the 2024/25 season.

“This is massive for us in that it emphasizes our commitment towards nurturing and retaining talent for the franchise,” Head of Contracts and Operations at the Lions Rugby Company Tracy van Ginkel said.

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“We pride ourselves in investing in talent both on and off the field, which is a key selling point in attracting players to Johannesburg.

“Crucial to the commitments made by these players is that it enhances the continuity project that the coaches have going, meaning they can plan around the talent they have at their disposal.

“With such a demanding competition schedule, namely the United Rugby Championship and the Challenge Cup, it’s important that we maintain depth in key positions and overall experience.”

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SHOULD LIONS FANS BE WORRIED?

Perhaps a little concerning for Lions fans is that the name of Henco van Wyk was not among those who had agreed contract extensions.