Tapiwa Mafura is set to debut for a Lions outfit skippered by veteran hooker Jaco Visagie against the Sharks in the Currie Cup at Kings Park on Friday.
Head coach Mziwakhe Nkosi has opted for a balanced 23 with experience and a glimpse of the future in the likes of prop RF Schoeman with Junior Springbok SJ Kotze and exciting halfback Layton Horn also in line to make their senior bows.
Nkosi is upbeat ahead of this year’s campaign, especially with the progression of some of the youngsters.
“We’re excited about the start of the campaign and very keen to get going and with hopes of going deep in the competition,” he said.
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“We believe we have got a good blend of players in the team to tackle the Sharks under the leadership of Jaco.
“A large part of our guys have come through the ranks at the franchise, and I’m sure are keen to put their hands up in this competition and establish themselves.”
The powerful Ruan Venter returns from suspension, and will be joined in the back row by Jarod Cairns and Izan Esterhuizen.
Flyhalf Kade Woluter leads the attack alongside scrumhalf Nico Steyn. Rabz Maxwane returns on the left wing, with Boldwin Hansen and Gianni Lombard completing the back three. The versatile Mafura could feature off the bench.
Photo: Lee Warren/Gallo Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
