The Lions won’t be considering Springbok scrumhalf Morne van den Berg for Saturday’s crucial clash against the Scarlets at Ellis Park.

The Joburg side are back home after a disastrous European tour which resulted in three losses. It was compounded by the fact that Van den Berg lasted less than ten minutes in the loss against Benetton, limping off with a hamstring injury.

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Nico Steyn deputised for Van den Berg in Treviso and is expected to be entrusted with the No 9 jersey once again, as the Lions look to get one over their fellow stragglers in this year’s competition.

Lions backline and attack coach, Ricardo Loubscher, says Van den Berg didn’t train regularly enough this week, so won’t be risked.

“Hopefully the injury is not too serious,” remarked Loubscher.

“He can’t be considered for this week. We will surely know next week if he’ll be fit enough to face Ulster. We just need to wait on feedback from the doctor, physio and the medical team.

“Junior Bok sensation, Haashim Pead, won’t be available for the Lions against the Scarlets because he’ll be representing the union’s U21’s in the provincial series final against the Sharks in Durban.

Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images