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Lions Name 28-Man URC Tour Squad as Concussed Flyhalf Chris Smith Misses Cardiff Opener

Flyhalf duties shift to Lubabalo Dobela or Sam Francis pending Chris Smith’s concussion clearance.

PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA - JUNE 07: Vincent Tshituka of the Hollywoodbets Sharks in action during the United Rugby Championship, semi final match between Vodacom Bulls and Hollywoodbets Sharks at Loftus Versfeld on June 07, 2025 in Pretoria, South Africa. (Photo by Johan Orton/Gallo Images)
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - SEPTEMBER 20: Chris Smit of the Fidelity ADT Lions is injured as Gustav Erlank of Griquas tackles him during the Carling Currie Cup final match between Fidelity ADT Lions and Suzuki Griquas at Ellis Park on September 20, 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Christiaan Kotze/Gallo Images)
Springbok on 'standby' for Lions' URC tour
Flyhalf Chris Smith is currently concussed. Picture: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images

Overview

  • The Johannesburg side departs Tuesday for three away games against Cardiff, Zebre and Benetton to open the URC season.
  • Smith was concussed in the Currie Cup final and is sidelined for about 12 days, with a realistic earliest return against Benetton on October 11 subject to medical clearance.
  • Dobela and Francis are the options at No 10 for the opener in Wales in Smith’s absence.
  • Springbok scrumhalf Morné van den Berg is on standby and will travel to London with the national team before linking up with the Lions on tour.
  • Hooker resources are stretched with PJ Botha out after knee surgery and Jaco Visagie dealing with neck issues, and the squad includes prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye who awaits a December hearing.