The Johannesburg-based unit played some really entertaining rugby last season and only narrowly missed out on the play-offs. They have a spicy opening fixture, as they play hosts to the DHL Stormers this weekend.
The Emirates Lions begin their season against the DHL Stormers on Saturday in Johannesburg at 16:05, thereafter, they travel to Europe to face Edinburgh, Benetton, Scarlets and Ulster before returning home to face Zebre Parma on the 25th of November 2023.
The retirement of skipper Jaco Kriel and the departure of key playmakers once again leaves the Lions looking vulnerable.
Player movement:
Players in: Erich Cronjé (Zebre), Zander du Plessis (Griquas), Richard Kriel (Zebre), Conraad van Vuuren (Cheetahs), Kade Wolhuter (Stormers - loan), Johan Mulder (Windhoek Draught Griquas - loan).
Players out: Sti Sithole (Stormers), Pieter Jansen van Vuren (Biarritz), Michael van Vuuren (Newcastle), André Warner (Agen), Jaco Kriel (retired), Jannie du Plessis (retired).