Leinster coach warns of tough challenge against Lions at Ellis Park

Leinster senior coach Jacques Nienaber has expressed caution ahead of the United Rugby Championship season opener against the Lions at Ellis Park. Nienaber noted that the Johannesburg-based side is a formidable opponent, citing their recent success in the South African conference and their competitive performance in a recent match against the All Blacks.

The Lions, led by Ivan van Rooyen, enter the season following a strong campaign where they secured Champions Cup qualification. The squad has been bolstered over the off-season with the return of Boan Venter and the arrivals of Hyron Andrews, Sikhumbuzo Notshe, and JP du Preez. Nienaber emphasized the difficulty of playing in South Africa, noting that South African teams have appeared in each of the last five URC finals.