Springbok Contingent Returns as Morné van den Berg Hits Century Milestone for Lions

The Lions name four Springboks to face Edinburgh at Ellis Park as scrumhalf Morné van den Berg celebrates his 100th game for the franchise.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 21, 2026, 7:49 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

A Centenary Milestone for Morné van den Berg

Scrumhalf Morné van den Berg is set to achieve a major career landmark this Saturday, stepping onto the field for his 100th appearance for the Lions. Known for his high work rate and tactical awareness, the Springbok halfback has become a foundational member of the Johannesburg squad. His milestone coincides with a period of high stakes for the franchise, as they look to capitalize on home-ground advantage to secure a top-eight finish. Van den Berg will partner with Chris Smith in a halfback combination tasked with navigating the unique challenges of playing at the altitude of Ellis Park.

Springbok Powerhouse Returns to the Starting Fifteen

Head coach Ivan van Rooyen has signaled his intent by recalling four international stars to the matchday squad. Alongside Van den Berg, the Lions welcome back Quan Horn at fullback, Asenathi Ntlabakanye in the front row, and Ruan Venter on the flank. These inclusions provide a significant physical and technical boost to a side that has shown impressive form in recent weeks. Ntlabakanye joins PJ Botha and SJ Kotze in a revamped front row designed to challenge Edinburgh's set-piece, while Venter’s return to the back row alongside Siba Mahashe and captain Francke Horn ensures a high-intensity breakdown presence.

Tactical Shuffles in the Backline and Bench Strategy

The team announcement features several notable positional shifts, most notably Erich Cronje moving from the midfield to the wing. This adjustment makes room for Bronson Mills and Henco van Wyk to form the starting center partnership, a duo characterized by their explosive running lines and defensive solidity. To counter the expected physical toll of the encounter, the coaching staff has opted for a six-two bench split. This forward-heavy replacement strategy emphasizes the Lions' plan to maintain set-piece dominance throughout the eighty minutes, with Haashim Pead and Richard Kriel providing the only backline cover.