New faces in Lions squad

The Lions' 33-man squad for the 2014 Super Rugby competition has been announced, featuring some returning players and newcomers to the tournament.

Corné Fourie joins the Lions on loan from the Pumas for the tournament, while Schalk van der Merwe has signed with the Lions for the season from the Cheetahs.

Malcom Marx will look to make the step up after coming through the Golden Lions ranks from U21 level in 2013.

Four locks have been selected, with Luvuyiso ‘MB’ Lusaseni primed for his Super Rugby debut. Springbok Franco van der Merwe will take charge at lineout time, with Martin Muller and Franco Mostert also putting their hands up for selection.

Another Puma on loan, Francois de Klerk, will make his Super Rugby debut this season at scrumhalf.

At flyhalf, Marnitz Boshoff will take the reins. Elton Jantjies will also fill the No 10 jersey as soon as he is fully recovered from his shoulder injury. 

Additional utility backs included in the squad are Ruan Combrinck (fullback/wing) and new Lions signing Courtnall Skosan (wing/centre).

Finally, at fullback, Namibian international Chrysander Botha has secured his spot in the final squad. Andries Coetzee will link up with the group after he has completed treatment for his recently sustained knee injury.

2014 Lions Super Rugby Squad – Michael Bondesio, Marnitz Boshoff, Chrysander Botha, Willie Britz, Andries Coetzee, Robbie Coetzee, Ruan Combrinck, Francois de Klerk, Ruan Dreyer, Corne Fourie, Deon Helberg, Alwyn Hollenbach, Elton Jantjies, JW Jonker, Jaco Kriel, Luvuyiso Lusaseni, Lionel Mapoe, Malcolm Marx, Derick Minnie, Franco Mostert, Martin Muller, Julian Redelinghuys, Courtnall Skosan, Warwick Tecklenburg, Franco van der Merwe, Schalk van der Merwe, Deon van Rensburg, Jacques van Rooyen, Coenie van Wyk, Anthony Volmink, Stefan Watermeyer, Willie Wepener, Warren Whiteley.

Photo: Allan James/BackpagePix