Barend Pieterse, the Lions' assistant coach, said the selection for the EPCR Challenge Cup match against the Newcastle Falcons involves heavy squad rotation and the inclusion of young players.
Barend Pieterse explained that the short turnaround, travelling back on the Sunday, necessitated leaving the bulk of the matchday squad at home.
“When we started with our planning in pre-season, it was part of our planning,” Pieterse said ahead of the team’s departure for Newcastle upon Tyne in England.
“We are certainly not underestimating Newcastle, especially not after their impressive win over Lyon this past weekend.”
“No.8 and Captain Francke Horn would not have toured anyway. Franco Marais was on the shortlist to tour, but he rolled his ankle.”
“While none of the niggles are serious, with such a short turnaround, it makes sense to keep them at home for rehab.”
The selection includes several "young cubs" who are seen as the "next guys in line". Pieterse noted that the experience of touring, playing in cold/wet conditions, and a tough European tie will accelerate their development.
“There will always be that risk that we could lose momentum. Some of the stuff that worked for us last year is not working for us now. Maybe, just changing it up a bit will work for us.”
“You can see the way they trained, there is a fresh energy. “We are positive it will go the other way, have a positive impact, this time.”