Bokwatch: Hanekom returns, Mapimpi hits 100 as Van den Berg leads Lions charge

Van den Berg brings up 100 for Lions

All eyes will be on Morne van den Berg when the scrumhalf earns his 100th cap for the Lions against Edinburgh in Johannesburg on Saturday.

The Bok No 9 has grown into one of the Lions' most influential figures since his debut in 2019, and his leadership will again be key as they chase a crucial win in their push for the playoffs.

The hosts are further boosted by the return of fellow Springboks Ruan Venter and Asenathi Ntlabakanye, adding power to a pack that coach Ivan van Rooyen expects to set the tone up front.

Mapimpi reaches Sharks century

In Durban, Makazole Mapimpi will run out for his 100th match for the Sharks when they host Munster at Kings Park.

The Springbok winger becomes the latest centurion for the Durban outfit, underlining his consistency and importance over the years.

The Sharks also welcome back captain Siya Kolisi for his 50th appearance, while Grant Williams gets a starting opportunity at scrumhalf in the absence of Jaden Hendrikse.

With their playoff hopes still hanging in the balance, the Sharks will be relying on their experienced internationals to deliver in a high-stakes clash.

Hanekom boost for Bulls

The big news in Pretoria is the return of Cameron Hanekom, who is set to make his comeback off the bench for the Bulls against Cardiff after a lengthy injury lay-off.

The powerful loose forward has been sidelined for nine months, and his reintroduction provides a significant lift as the Bulls look to regain momentum.

He is joined in the matchday squad by a strong Springbok core, including Handre Pollard and Kurt-Lee Arendse, with the latter again expected to be a key attacking threat out wide.

Stormers reload at home

The Stormers also benefit from returning Bok firepower, with Evan Roos back from injury for their clash against the Dragons at DHL Stadium.

He slots straight into the starting XV, adding physicality to a loose trio that will be crucial in maintaining momentum after last week's win in Pretoria.

In the backline, Damian Willemse shifts to fullback, while Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu continues to steer the attack at flyhalf.

Springboks abroad

Several overseas-based South Africans are also set to make an impact in the URC this weekend, including Bok hardman RG Snyman at Leinster, Juarno Augustus at Ulster, Boan Venter at Edinburgh and Marnus van der Merwe at Scarlets.

The Lions are taking on Venter's Edinburgh at Ellis Park, and will be all too aware of the former Cheetahs star's scrumming abilities.