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Lions veteran gives insight on new coaching era

By Angus Opperman
Wednesday 31 Dec 2025

SPOTLIGHT: Lions hooker PJ Botha expressed his views regarding the departure of forwards coach Barend Pieterse to the Junior Springboks.

Pieterse will step into his new venture in January 2026 as the Junior Boks will start their preparation for the 2026 Under-20 Rugby Championship and their World Rugby title defence later in the season.

Pieterse has been replaced by former Bulls and Bok forward Wessel Roux, who has coached the Lions’ juniors since 2016, ahead of their upcoming Round Nine United Rugby Championship clash against the Sharks at Hollywoodbets Kings Park.

Botha said that whilst it’s sad to lose Pieterse, he respects the decision of his former coach and is excited to work with Roux during the second part of the URC season and beyond.

The article continues below…

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“Losing coach Barries [Barend Pieterse] wasn’t part of the plan,” Botha said in an online media conference on Tuesday.

“But at the end of the day, he must do what’s best for himself and his family, and we wish him all the best.

“He’s a great person and made a great impact during his time with us [at the Lions], but as he’s moving on, we need to move on as well.

“Coach Wessel [Roux] has been in the [Lions] system for a long time, and we know him very well.

“He’s always innovative, and we’re looking forward to walking a road with him.

“Obviously, there won’t be massive changes as it’s only been a week, but we are looking forward to the future with new plans and new everything.”

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