Five Lions who must deliver in crunch Challenge Cup clash against Newcastle

The Lions head to England this weekend for their Challenge Cup clash with the Newcastle Red Bulls, a fixture that promises physicality, tough conditions and very little room for error.

It is also the kind of match where individual performances can shift momentum and set the tone for the rest of the team. The visitors are in desperate need of a victory after losing at home on the opening weekend.

Here are five players who could have a decisive influence on Saturday’s clash (7.30pm kick-off) as the Lions chase their first win in the tournament.

Jarod Cairns (loose forward)

Cairns is the type of player a coach leans on in tough away fixtures. His work rate and defensive output are consistent, and he’s never shy to dig in when a match becomes a grind. His presence at the breakdown will be crucial in slowing down Newcastle’s ball and helping the Lions control the rhythm of the game, especially if the conditions prevent them from playing with their usual fluency. He doesn’t always command headlines, but fixtures like these often reward players who specialise in the hard, unglamorous work.

Haashim Pead (scrumhalf)

Should he receive another opportunity, the Junior Bok star will look to seize it. Pead has grown steadily in confidence, and this weekend offers another chance to showcase the value he brings at the base of the ruck and behind the scrum. His decision-making is sharp and his tempo aligns perfectly with the Lions’ preferred style. If the forwards give him a solid platform, his ability to vary the attack and exploit defensive gaps could be decisive.

Renzo du Plessis (loose forward)

Du Plessis offers an effective blend of mobility and physicality around the park. He is strong over the ball, reads attacking patterns well and is a valuable support runner. He is also capable of producing momentum-shifting moments — whether through a turnover in a pressure situation or a forceful carry that keeps the attack front-footed. His versatility within the loose trio could be especially important given the unpredictable northern-English weather.

Richard Kriel (utility back)

Kriel brings calmness and intelligence to the Lions backline. Whether he features at fullback, centre or wing, he provides assurance under the high ball and offers a sharp counterattacking threat — vital in matches where territory becomes a primary battleground. His reading of the game gives the Lions stability, but he can also turn half-chances into meaningful opportunities. If conditions are unfavourable, his kicking game will be crucial in relieving pressure.

Angelo Davids (wing)

The explosive winger remains one of the Lions’ most exciting attacking weapons. His acceleration and ability to beat defenders in tight spaces make him a constant danger. In what may be a low-scoring, attritional affair, Davids’ finishing ability becomes even more valuable. If the Lions can create space for him — or if he finds it on his own — he has the potential to swing the contest. His composure under the high ball will also be tested in what is likely to be a territory-dominated match.

* Meanwhile, the Johannesburg side announced on Wednesday that Springbok scrumhalf Morné van den Berg has committed his future to the team until June 2028.

He becomes the third key player to extend his stay this week, following fullback Quan Horn and loose forward Ruan Venter in pledging their long-term futures to the Lions.