The Lions have extended the contract of head coach Swys de Bruin by two years.

De Bruin replaced Johan Ackermann as Lions coach after the 2017 Vodacom Super Rugby season. He coached them to last year’s final, where they lost to the Crusaders in Christchurch. The team is currently at the top of the South African conference.

The 59-year-old has also assisted Rassie Erasmus with coaching the Springboks, prompting speculation that he could leave the Lions.

However, Lions CEO Rudolf Straeuli confirmed on Tuesday that De Bruin is staying put.

‘Swys will remain at the Lions and has extended his contract until 2021 with the franchise. Lions Rugby remains a system-driven franchise focused on stability within the structures of our players and coaches.’

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