Lions name new front row for must-win Sharks Currie Cup clash

The Lions have announced a completely new front row for their crucial Currie Cup match against the Sharks XV at Woodburn Stadium in Pietermaritzburg on Friday at 7:15pm. Head coach Mziwakhe Nkosi has made significant changes to his starting lineup, introducing Juan Schoeman, Armand Combrinck, and Conraad van Vuuren to the front row in place of the previous players in those positions.

Siba Qoma will join JD Hattingh in the second row. Scrumhalf Zian Cilliers and wing Latica Nela will continue their service on the field. Jarod Cairns will lead the team from the openside flank, with Renzo du Plessis and Thando Biyela taking positions on the sides. Sam Francis will kick off for the Lions as flyhalf, with Cilliers pairing up as halfback.

Likhona Finca and Rynhardt Jonker will occupy the midfield spots. Gilermo Mentoe will take on the fullback role, and the backline will consist of Keagan Smith, Latica Nela, Sam Francis, Zian Cilliers, and Jarod Cairns, who is the team captain. Ethan Adams, a powerful Junior Springbok, has been added to the replacements list and may make his senior debut for the Lions.

Adams, who proved his worth in the Junior Springboks' World Rugby U20 Championship victory in Georgia, is expected to draw considerable attention if he is given a chance against the Sharks. The complete squad and replacement list is detailed in the source.