Pead, Hlekani get first starts for Lions, Van Wyk back for physical clash with Perpignan

JUNIOR Springbok stars Batho Hlekani and Hashim Pead will enjoy their first starts for the Lions in tonight’s Challenge Cup pool game against Perpignan in the south of France, kickoff is at 7.30pm (SA time).

- MIKE GREENAWAY

Pead was the hero of the Lions’ win in Durban a fortnight ago when he scored a last-minute try to steal the spoils 23-22 in a United Rugby Championship match.

Hlekani, who joined the Lions from the Sharks at the beginning of January, made his debut off the bench last week in the 42-33 Challenge Cup defeat of Lyon at Ellis Park.

The powerfully built, abrasive flank earned the Player of the Match award for his impressive efforts, and his reward is a starting place this week.

Conspicuous by their absence are Springboks Morne van den Berg and Asenathi Ntlabakanye.

Coach Ivan van Rooyen earlier this week said that some of his senior players were carrying niggles, and if they were not 100% on the eve of the Perpignan match, he would save them for next week’s URC visit to Edinburgh.