Quadruple signings boost for Lions

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The Lions were thrilled to confirm the acquisition of four experienced and promising recruits, two of whom were playing extensively in Europe, for next season.

Having missed out on a place in the 2022-23 Vodacom URC quarter-finals by three points, the Lions have secured their first set of signings on a quest to reach the playoffs.

Zebre’s South African duo of Richard Kriel (22) and Erich Cronje (26) have both agreed to move to Johannesburg.

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Kriel, the younger brother of Vodacom Bulls’ utility back David, can play across the back three, as well as at centre. Cronje, who came through at the Bulls before stints with the Southern Kings and Pumas, plays mainly at outside centre.

Along with those two, the Lions have signed Griquas playmaker Zander du Plessis and Cheetahs tighthead prop Conraad van Vuuren.

Du Plessis (23) played eight times for the Lions on loan last season and will provide further depth at flyhalf, fullback and inside centre, while the 27-year-old Van Vuuren has featured prominently in the Cheetahs’ march to the Currie Cup semi-finals this season.

Photo: Oisin Keniry/Getty Images

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