The fourth franchise we take a look at is where our hearts are, the Golden Lions.
Initially, I had no hope for the Lions in the upcoming SARU competition of which the format nor the name is known. However, after our discussion, it is clear that the Lions have a balanced squad with the exciting youngsters who will push hard for a place. The old men better beware.
This Lions squad can win against any of the other franchises although the Sharks is still our favourite. However, the coaching staff must be left lone to coach without any interference from management.
Once again the squad discussed is not confirmed and was compiled with the help of "skinner", educated guesses and perhaps a little bit of information.
Props: Wiehhn Herbst, Sti Sithole, Ruan Dreyer, Johannes Jonker, Nathan McBeth, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Carlü Sadie, Dylan Smith.
Hookers: Dameon Venter, Jaco Visagie, Jan-Henning Campher, Marko Janse van Rensburg, Pieter Jansen.
Locks: Wilhelm van der Sluys, Lunga Ncube, Reinhard Nothnagel, Marvin Orie, Ruben Schoeman.
Loosies: Hacjivah Dayimani, Len Massyn, Marnus Schoeman, Roelof Smit, Vincent Tshituka, Francke Horn, Jaco Kriel.
Scrumhalves: Ross Cronjé, André Warner, Morne vd Bergh, Dillon Smit.
Flyhalves: Jordan Hendrikse, Elton Jantjies, Gianni Lombard, James Mollentze.
Centres: EW Viljoen, Burger Odendaal, Wandisile Simelane, Dan Kriel, Stean Pienaar, Mannie Rass, Wandisile Simelane, Louritz van der Schyff.
Wings: Rabz Maxwane, Duncan Matthews, Courtnall Skosan, Jamba Ulengo
Fullbacks: Tiaan Swanepoel, Divan Rossouw, Andries Coetzee
Other junior players that could play a role are Nkosikona Masuku, Keagan Glade, Cristen van Niekerk, Mark Snyman, Mandisi Mthiyane, Thinus Combrink, Prince Nkabinde, Wycliff Vlitoor, Muzi Manyike, Banele Mtenyane, Adrian Alberts, Tristan Dulisear, Sby Sangweni, Gordon Travis, Jordan Clark, Emmanuel Tshituka, Rouber Bester, Lindo Ncusane, Shawn Baxter.