Wandisile Simelane has returned from Springbok duty to start for the Lions in a new role in their Currie Cup clash with the Bulls on Sunday.

Simelane, who was released from the Springbok squad after starting for South Africa A against the Bulls, has gone straight into the Lions starting lineup.

The 23-year-old will be playing at fullback, however, as Manuel Rass continues at outside centre, having filled in during Simelane’s absence.

There is also a return from injury for flanks Roelof Smit and Vincent Tshituka, while Courtnall Skosan has been included on the left wing.

Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen has opted for a six-two split between forwards and backs on the bench, with Fred Zeilinga and Stean Pienaar the two backline replacements.

Lions – 15 Wandisile Simelane, 14 Rabz Maxwane, 13 Manuel Rass, 12 Dan Kriel, 11 Courtnall Skosan, 10 Jordan Hendrikse, 9 Andre Warner, 8 Francke Horn (c), 7 Vincent Tshituka, 6 Roelof Smit, 5 FP Pelser, 4 Ruben Schoeman, 3 Carlu Sadie, 2 PJ Botha, 1 Ruan Dreyer.
Subs: 16 Jaco Visagie, 17 Sti Sithole, 18 Jannie du Plessis, 19 Reinhard Nothnagel, 20 Ruhan Straeuli, 21 Sibusiso Sangweni, 22 Fred Zeilinga, 23 Stean Pienaar.

Photo: Gallo Images