Springbok prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye included in Lions squad for European tour

Ntlabakanye sat out last weekend's EPCR Challenge Cup victory over Lyon as a precaution, but the tighthead has recovered in time to join the touring group, which departs Johannesburg on Tuesday afternoon. His availability is a timely boost as the Lions prepare for a decisive pool clash against Perpignan in France, followed by a United Rugby Championship encounter with the Ospreys in Swansea.

The Challenge Cup fixture carries significant weight. The Lions sit on the edge of playoff qualification, and a win over Perpignan would guarantee their progression. Unlike their previous European trip in December, when a rotated side narrowly lost to Newcastle, head coach Ivan van Rooyen has opted to take a near full-strength squad for the final pool match.

While the touring party is strong, several players have been left behind. Flanker Ruan Venter will serve the second leg of a four-match suspension stemming from a high tackle against the Sharks, while loose forward Siba Qoma misses out after picking up an injury during the warm-up ahead of the Lyon match. Winger Kelly Mpeku also remains in Johannesburg as he continues his recovery from a wrist injury.

There is, however, plenty of excitement around the inclusion of rising talent Batho Hlekani. The former Junior Springbok made an immediate impact on debut against Lyon, earning man-of-the-match honours, and is set for another opportunity to impress on tour. Scrumhalf Haashim Pead, another young prospect, will also gain valuable exposure at European and URC level.

Captain Francke Horn anchors the forward pack, supported by experienced campaigners and returning lock Darrien Landsberg, who is back after a shoulder issue. In the backline, the Lions will lean on the influence of Springboks Morne van den Berg and Quan Horn, with centre Henco van Wyk pushing for a starting role after recently returning from injury. Flyhalf Chris Smith's composure and Pead's energy at scrumhalf add further balance.

After Perpignan, the Lions will turn their attention to the Ospreys, a side with whom they share an even head-to-head record. Although the Welsh team has won three of the last four meetings, the Lions will draw confidence from last season's narrow 29–28 victory at Ellis Park and will be eager to build momentum away from home.

Lions touring squad

Forwards: PJ Botha, Morne Brandon, Jarod Cairns, Eddie Davids, Renzo du Plessis, Batho Hlekani, Francke Horn, SJ Kotze, Darrien Landsberg, Siba Mahashe, Franco Marais, Reinhard Nothnagel, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Etienne Oosthuizen, RF Schoeman, Ruben Schoeman, Dylan Sjoblom, Conrad van Vuuren.

Backs: Erich Cronje, Angelo Davids, Sam Francis, Quan Horn, Eduan Keyter, Richard Kriel, Bronson Mills, Haashim Pead, Chris Smith, Nico Steyn, Morne van den Berg, Henco van Wyk.