Sevens star set for debut as Lions name strong squad for Stormers clash

Former Blitzbok Lubabalo Dobela will make his highly anticipated debut off the bench, with his Sevens experience set to provide a dynamic option in the latter stages of the game.

In the forwards, Etienne Oosthuizen and Darrien Landsberg form a solid lock partnership, while the back row is bolstered by the presence of captain Francke Horn along with Ruan Venter and JC Pretorius offering key support in both attack and defence.

Meanwhile, the front row includes the powerful Asenathi Ntlabakanye and the experienced PJ Botha alongside Juan Schoeman.

In the backline, flyhalf Gianni Lombard has been entrusted with the kicking duties alongside Springbok No 9 Morne van den Berg, and ably supported by a midfield pairing of Marius Louw and Henco van Wyk, who both return to the starting lineup.

Louw's experience and physicality will be vital in creating space for the outside backs, with wings Richard Kriel and Edwill van der Merwe bringing pace and finishing ability on the flanks.

Lions: 15 Quan Horn, 14 Richard Kriel, 13 Henco van Wyk, 12 Marius Louw, 11 Edwill van der Merwe, 10 Gianni Lombard, 9 Morne van den Berg, 8 Francke Horn (captain), 7 Ruan Venter, 6 JC Pretorius, 5 Darrien Landsberg, 4 Etienne Oosthuizen, 3 Asenathi Ntlabakanye, 2 PJ Botha, 1 Juan Schoeman.

Replacements: 16 Jaco Visagie, 17 SJ Kotze, 18 RF Schoeman, 19 Ruan Delport, 20 Jarod Cairns, 21 Nico Steyn, 22 Lubabalo Dobela, 23 Manuel Rass.

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