The Golden Lions are expected to be able to call on the services of influential captain Jaco Kriel for this Friday’s Currie Cup clash against the Pumas.

Kriel suffered a concussion during last weekend’s win over the Sharks, but the Lions confirmed that he is recovering well and commenced his graded return to the play programme on Monday.

However, fellow loose forward Ruaan Lerm sustained a grade-two ankle ligament strain last Saturday and is expected to be out of action for approximately four weeks.

The Lions have started the domestic season with a full house of log points, having secured three bonus-point wins in succession.

Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images