Lions leave a few Boks behind
Some of the Springboks not travelling with the side are Elton Jantjies (paternity leave), Franco Mostert (rest), Lionel Mapoe (rehab and rest), Rohan Janse van Rensburg (funeral of his mother) and Ruan Combrinck (injured).
The Lions are currently unbeaten in this year's tournament after wins against the Cheetahs and the Waratahs.
They are also currently the highest-placed South African team in the combined Super Rugby standings.
Ackermann will confirm his matchday 23 later this week.
Lions squad: Jacques van Rooyen, Dylan Smith, Ruan Dreyer, Johannes Jonker, Hencus van Wyk, Malcolm Marx, Robbie Coetzee, Andries Ferreira, Lourens Erasmus, Marvin Orie, Jaco Kriel, Albertus Smith, Cyle Brink, Ruan Ackermann, Warren Whiteley, Ross Cronjé, Francois de Klerk, Andries Coetzee, Shaun Reynolds, Jaco van der Walt, Courtnall Skosan, Anthony Volmink, Harold Vorster, Jacques Nel, Sylvian Mahuza.
