VIDEO: Lions' cover for Jantjies
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Lions are putting extra plans in place should they be without the experienced Elton Jantjies going forward.
Given the lengthy-injury to flyhalf Handre Pollard, Jantjies has been regarded as the first choice to don the flyhalf jersey when South Africa play against the British and Irish Lions in June.
The tour is still a major doubt due to the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa.
But aside from Springboks duty, Jantjies has also been linked with a move away from Ellis Park.
The Springbok signed a new deal with the Lions in June 2020, however that has not prevented the rumour mill from linking him to a couple of Top 14 clubs.
Jantjies has been Lions’ only experienced flyhalf, with Shaun Reynolds (prior to moving to France in May) and Gianni Lombard as cover last season.
Recently the Lions have relied on Tiaan Swanepoel during the Preparation series.
Swanepoel has been doing quite well with the responsibility and his amazing boot has added another formidable attacking weapon.
However, with the eye on the upcoming European Rainbow Cup followed by the Currie Cup, the Lions have added an experienced head at pivot.
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Speaking to reporters, Lions head coach Ivan van Rooyen revealed that Fred Zeilinga has joined the Gauteng side on a four-week trial period.
The former Cheetahs and Sharks flyhalf will be desperate for some game after a stint in Japan with Canon Eagles.
“Fred is desperate for an opportunity,” Van Rooyen said.
“He started training with us last week and he will be here for the rest of the month.
“Hopefully we will be able to give him some game time during the Preparation series,”
The 28-year-old, who can also be utilised across the backline, will be a great addition to the Lions should Jantjies be on Springboks duty against the British and Irish Lions
“It’s always a good thing to have a bit of a look at what’s out there.
“Elton will be involved with the Springboks against the B&I Lions, so we thought we should look at an experienced 10 to potentially come into our system.
He added: “Fred has played in South Africa and Japan and has won trophies,”
When asked about Jantjies’ future plans, the coach said: “Elton has been in the thick of things since returning to training.
“There is no talk of him leaving us,”
Lions will face the EP Elephants at the Nelson Mandela Stadium on Wednesday.
