Ivan van Rooyen has been appointed as the Golden Lions head coach for the 2018 Currie Cup.  

Van Rooyen, who has worked as the Lions’ fitness coach since 2012, replaces Swys de Bruin as head coach of the Currie Cup squad.

He will be assisted by Philip Lemmer (forwards coach), Joey Mongalo (defence coach) and Neil de Bruin (attack coach).

In addition, Van Rooyen will receive input and consultation from Swys de Bruin, who is away on national duty with the Springboks for the duration of the Rugby Championship.

Meanwhile, the Lions confirmed the signing of prop Danie Mienie.

Mienie, who formerly represented the Sharks, Cheetahs and Griquas, will be returning to South Africa after playing one season for Toulouse in France.

The 27-year-old loosehead prop could serve as Jacques van Rooyen’s long-term replacement, with the latter leaving the Lions to join English side Bath at the end of the Lions’ Super Rugby season.

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