Junior Springbok sensation finally gets his shot
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Lions head coach Mziwakhe Nkosi has revealed his matchday squad for Friday’s crucial Round Six Currie Cup clash against the Sharks XV.
With the race for semifinal places intensifying, Nkosi’s side head into the fixture knowing that a strong response is required after last Friday’s defeat to Boland.
The Lions remain firmly in the play-off conversation, but Friday’s encounter at Woodburn Stadium presents an important opportunity to regain momentum in the closing stages of the pool phase.
Nkosi has effected several changes to his matchday squad, which sees Renzo du Plessis earn a starting opportunity, while a fresh front row featuring Juan Schoeman, Armand Combrinck and Conraad van Vuuren will pack down for the Lions.
In the backline, scrumhalf Zian Cilliers returns, with Latica Nela also back on the left wing.
Friday could also mark the long-awaited senior debut of schoolboy and Junior Springbok sensation Ethan Adams, who could make an appearance from the bench.
Lions: 15 Gilermo Mentoe, 14 Keagan Smith, 13 Likhona Finca, 12 Rynhardt Jonker, 11 Latica Nela, 10 Sam Francis, 9 Zian Cilliers, 8 Renzo du Plessis, 7 Jarod Cairns (captain), 6 Thando Biyela, 5 JD Hattingh, 4 Siba Qoma, 3 Conraad van Vuuren, 2 Armand Combrinck, 1 Juan Schoeman.
Replacements: 16 Mahle Sithole, 17 Liyema Ntshanga, 18 Siya Dube, 19 Dylan Sjoblom, 20 Vuyo Gwiji, 21 Asad Moos, 22 Ethan Adams, 23 Luke Cannon.
Date: Friday, August 21
Venue: Woodburn Stadium, Pietermaritzburg
Kick-off: 19.15 (17.15 GMT)
Referee: TBC
Assistant referees: TBC
TMO: TBC
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