Haashim Pead has become a breakout star for the Lions, most notably for his 81st-minute match-winning try against the Hollywoodbets Sharks in Durban on 3 January 2026. To ward off interest from other franchises, the Lions recently secured Pead on a long-term contract extension through 2028.
“The winning try was very important; I needed it to give my confidence a boost. After that match, I felt like myself again. I then knew that I had it in me to play at an even higher level.”
Despite his heroics, the 2025 World Rugby U20 Player of the Tournament has seen limited game time this season, totalling approximately 138 minutes as he develops behind Springbok scrumhalf Morne van den Berg.
“The competition among the scrumhalves here with us is very good. We all learn from each other, and we push each other to be the best. At the end of the day, that’s what makes you a better player and also a better person,” said Pead.
Pead is widely regarded as a "generational talent," with coaches comparing his playing style to France's Antoine Dupont.
In the reverse fixture on 3 January, Pead came off the bench for just 14 minutes and scored a clinical close-range try after the 80-minute mark to secure a 23–22 away victory.
Coach Ivan van Rooyen has been managing his transition carefully, using him primarily as a high-impact substitute in the United Rugby Championship (URC) and EPCR Challenge Cup to avoid overexposure.
“It is absolutely not a bad thing for me to be a substitute. I play alongside Krappie, he’s a Springbok, and I have the opportunity to learn from him. That makes me a better player.”
“Obviously, the coaches also have a plan. All I have to do is trust the process that is being followed, because then everything will work out.”