Ackermann: Lions not a one-man band
The Lions are not unique in the game for having a father-son combination and there is certainly no favouritism.
The most high profile examples of recent and current father-son scenarios at in the same team include Owen and Andy Farrell (as player and assistant coach with England till last year's World Cup) as well as George and Mike Ford (at Bath in the English Premiership).
And Lions coach Johan Ackermann is adamant the selection of his son is based on rugby merits and not family loyalty.
He also pointed out that his assistants can always challenge him on any selection.
Far from being a one-man-band, the Lions' selection panel makes decisions – as a collective – in the best interest of the team.
The six minutes that the 20-year-old Ruan Ackermann spent on the field – after making his Super Rugby debut as a replacement in the 26-13 win over the Sunwolves in Tokyo last Saturday – were hardly enough to judge his merits as a player at this level.
However, like every other player in the Lions squad, he will be given a chance to stake a proper claim for a regular spot.
And then a call will be made on merits.
The head coach, Johan Ackermann, said he does not see it as a father-son issue, but purely as a rugby selection.
And he also believes his assistant coaches will "challenge" him on selections if they believe there are better alternatives.
While obviously being a proud father, Ackermann senior said his son won a spot in the touring squad because of his versatility – he can play flank, No.8 and even lock.
Now it is up to Ackermann junior to "prove his worth" and "do his selection justice".
Ackermann, the coach, also explained why Springbok Marnitz Boshoff did not make the tour squad – a decision which has attracted the attention of teams from abroad, who are reportedly now chasing the one-time Bok flyhalf's signature.
Ackermann said that the two Boks, Elton Jantjies and Boshoff, are both more effective when starting – with young Jaco van der Walt the ideal player to have as back-up ion the bench.
Van der Walt is also a more natural fullback and while Boshoff can help out at No.15, it is a position that is a better fit for the youngster.
However, Boshoff will certainly get his chances to start once the team returns home – as will other players – when the rotation policy kicks in and travel-weary players get a break.
* Listen to Ackermann speak about his contentious selections!
@rugby365com
