Swys de Bruin will replace Johan Ackermann as head coach of the Lions after this year's Super Rugby tournament.

De Bruin is currently Ackermann's assistant.

'The company is pleased to announce that De Bruin has put pen to paper for the position of head coach at the Lions,' said Rudolf Straeuli, CEO of Lions Rugby (Pty) Ltd, in a press release.

'We believe it will bring continuity and stability within the different teams in the various competitions that we are taking part in.'

De Bruin said: 'I am thankful for the trust the board of directors put in me and look forward to the challenge.'

Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images