UNITED RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP Dobela returns at flyhalf as Lions chase winning start

LUBABALO Dobela will be hoping that he can provide the same calming presence that Chris Smith has brought since his introduction to the squad when he starts at flyhalf for the Lions’ opening United Rugby Championship clash against Cardiff Rugby in Wales on Saturday.

- ROWAN CALLAGHAN

LUBABALO Dobela will start at flyhalf for the Lions against Cardiff.

(BackpagePix)

Veteran Smith has dictated play expertly for the Lions since joining in the latter stages of the Currie Cup, but suffered a head knock against Griquas in last weekend's final. Dobela was also in fine form for the Lions before a similar knock derailed his campaign earlier in the season, and should have no problem renewing his burgeoning partnership with Nico Steyn at No 9.

Springbok Quan Horn will lead the side from fullback, while Tapiwa Mafura gets an opportunity on the tight wing in a very attacking Lions backline that also features flyer Angelo Davids on the opposite wing, as well as the centre pairing of Richard Kriel and Henco van Wyk. Kriel has been a revelation since his switch from the wing, often sparking attacks and line breaks alongside “Weapon X.”