Lions licking lips for beefy Boan, Tank impact

Ivan van Rooyen is excited to see hulking Springbok prop Boan Venter in Lions action next season, unleashed with the complete skill set of powerful centre Ethan Adams.

The 10-cap Venter made his Lions debut against the All Blacks on 25 August, while rookie Adams featured prominently at the end of the 2026 Currie Cup.

Both are primed to make a big impact for the Pride across the 2026-27 URC and Investec Champions Cup campaigns, which kicks off for Van Rooyen’s charges next Saturday against defending URC champions Leinster at Ellis Park.

“He’s big, a 120, 130kg loosehead,” is how head coach Van Rooyen described Venter, adding, “He brings bulk, brings a bit of beef. 

“Hardkoppig in Afrikaans is the way that he plays. It’s physical, exciting in the loose, which I think obviously fits our game a little bit.

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“He’s been awesome. We’ve actually now had two weeks with him, where we can assess where he is. He’s currently in that yo-yo position where he’s with the Boks and with us.

“Whatever it is, wherever he gets minutes, it’s important for him and for us to perform … to bring his set-piece work to us, and assist in the loose as much as possible.”

The 19-year-old Adams crossed for tries in the Lions’ Currie Cup win over the Stormers XXIII three weeks ago and in their semi-final defeat to Griquas.

Van Rooyen believes ‘The Tank’ offers the Joburgers’ depth and versatility in midfield.

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“We were unlucky at 12 last season. Richard [Kriel] started the season well, then got injured. Bronson [Mills] had an unbelievable run, and then he got injured.

“Ethan’s physical, he gets you momentum. We worked out for two weeks with him and he has a really good skill set.

“A lot of people will probably think that he doesn’t have a skill set because they just see him bash, but we’re excited about him.

“He does bring something a little bit different for us at 12. He can also play 13, similar to what Henco [van Wyk] can bring.”

Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images