PJ Botha set for 100th Lions cap in crucial URC clash against Connacht

WITH nearly a decade of service to the Lions in his repertoire, one of the teams’ most underrated servants will reach a major milestone if selected to play against Connacht this weekend.

- MORGAN BOLTON

PJ Botha does not receive nearly as many plaudits as he arguably deserves, but on Saturday against the visitors at Ellis Park (4pm kickoff), the 28-year-old will more than likely run out to earn his 100th cap at franchise level.

With the focus squarely on teammates Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Ruan Venter, Francke Horn, Morne van den Berg, Henco van Wyk and Quan Horn, it is often easy to overlook the workmanlike and consistent impact that Botha has had on the teams over the years.

This season, once again, Botha has been solid — never in the limelight — but working tirelessly in the dark holes of the pitch.

He enjoyed another efficient performance in the Lions’ 54-12 demolition of the Glasgow Warriors this past weekend, making two turnovers, beating two defenders and making nine tackles.

More importantly, he also ensured the Lions secured their line-out, denying the Warriors a counterattacking platform until his substitution in the 57th minute.