Lions assistant coach Ricardo Loubscher has confirmed that both Batho Hlekani and Haashim Pead will get opportunities to play for the senior team soon. Recent comments indicate that it's just a "matter of time" before they are fully unleashed.
Loubscher added that both players are Junior Springbok U20 World Champions, and their integration into the senior team is part of the Lions' long-term development strategy.
Loubscher dismissed criticism about Pead's lack of game time, stating it is just a "matter of time" before he is fully unleashed and makes an impact in competitions like the URC.
Despite limited game time since being named Junior World Player of the Year, Loubscher stated that Pead is highly regarded for his speed and "sniping" game around the rucks.
“We know what he’s capable of, and we’d love to allow him to play,” Loubscher said ahead of the Lions’ URC match against the Sharks in Durban on Saturday. We’re still talking about team selection, but we’re excited about what he can bring."
“We saw what he is capable of during the U20 Championship. He’s great on attack, brings great speed to the team, and his passing and sniping around the rucks is immense."
“It’s a matter of time before we will unleash him, and hopefully he’ll make use of the opportunity."
Loubser also confirmed that Batho Hlekani has officially joined the Lions from the Sharks as of January 2026 and is available for selection immediately. Loubscher mentioned that the primary challenge for Hlekani is getting accustomed to the Lions' systems.
“The big challenge for him, obviously, is to get used to our systems and the way we do things,” he added. “We know what he’s capable of on the pitch, and we’re quite excited to have him.”
