The Lions, a Gauteng-based rugby outfit, have set a goal to host a home United Rugby Championship semifinal at Ellis Park for the upcoming season. This ambitious target comes after last season's quarterfinal defeat against Leinster in Dublin, where they lost 59-10. According to scrumhalf Nico Steyn, the team has achieved its previous goal of finishing among the top eight teams to qualify for the knockout rounds. Now, they aim to progress further.
Steyn, who is on the Springbok radar, was recently called up to the SA A squad to play against Zimbabwe in Gqeberha earlier this year. He described the call-up as a big shock, receiving the message on a Saturday evening to join the team the following day. Steyn expressed his excitement about the opportunity, which he believes has fueled his determination. The experience with the SA A team was special, with clear plans and objectives in place.
Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen emphasized the importance of consistency for his team to achieve success in the URC. He highlighted the hard work done during preseason and the momentum gained at the end of last season. Van Rooyen expressed excitement within the camp about their potential and the challenges they may face, including dealing with travel and maintaining their identity. The team's first challenge will be against the 2025-26 URC champions Leinster at Ellis Park on September 26.
Van Rooyen acknowledged Leinster as a quality team with a strong squad and excellent coaching. He noted that they will pose a significant challenge, regardless of whether they field their international players or not. The Lions' coach highlighted Leinster's rushed defense, which can expose opponents if they make one bad decision. He praised Leinster's sharpness and quickness in their preseason games.
The Lions have confirmed that scrumhalf Haashim Pead has left the franchise to join the Stormers. Pead, who began his professional career with the Lions in 2024, fell behind Morné van den Berg and Steyn in the pecking order for the No 9 jersey. A Lions statement expressed appreciation for Pead's dedication and talent, wishing him success in his new chapter with the Stormers.
Lions Rugby Company CEO Rudolf Straeuli paid tribute to Pead, describing him as an exceptional talent since joining the team in 2024. Straeuli respected Pead's decision to take on a new challenge, thanking him for his service to the Lions. The team will look to build on their previous season's experience, with Steyn and van Rooyen leading the charge.
The Lions face a tough opening game against Leinster, who are the 2025-26 URC champions. With a strong squad and excellent coaching, Leinster will be a formidable opponent. The Lions will need to be at their best to overcome the challenge and take a step closer to achieving their goal of hosting a home semifinal at Ellis Park.
Key points
- The Lions aim to host a home United Rugby Championship semifinal at Ellis Park.
- Scrumhalf Nico Steyn is on the Springbok radar and was recently called up to the SA A squad.
- The Lions face the 2025-26 URC champions Leinster in their opening game of the season at Ellis Park on September 26.
