De Bruin replaces Johan Ackermann, who will join English club Gloucester.

ADVERTISEMENT

"The Company is pleased to announce that De Bruin has put pen to paper for the position of head coach at the Lions," said Rudolf Straeuli, CEO of Lions Rugby (Pty) Ltd.

"We believe it will bring continuity and stability within the different teams in the various competitions that we are taking part in."

De Bruin is thankful for the opportunity given to him to extend his relationship with the Lions.

"I am thankful for the trust the board of directors put in me and look forward to the challenge. For now, we are still totally focused on our campaign in the 2017 Super Rugby season," said De Bruin.

Key players have also agreed to terms ensuring the sustainability and growth within the franchise.

ADVERTISEMENT

The following senior players will remain at the franchise:

Lions players: Warren Whiteley, Albertus Smith, Andries Coetzee, Andries Ferreira (renewed), Anthony Volminck, Aphiwe Dyantyi, Corné Fourie, Courtnall Skosan (renewed), Cyle Brink, Dillon Smit (renewed), Dylan Smith, Elton Jantjies, Francois Mostert, Harold Vorster, Howard Mnisi, Jaco Kriel, Jaco van der Walt (renewed), Jacques van Rooyen (renewed), Johannes Jonker, Justin Ackerman (renewed), Lionel Mapoe (renewed), Lourens Erasmus, Malcolm Marx (renewed), Marvin Orie, Robbie Coetzee, Rohan Janse van Rensburg, Ross Cronjé, Ruan Ackermann, Ruan Combrinck, Ruan Dreyer, Shaun Reynolds, Sithembiso Sithole, Sylvian Mahuza (renewed).

PV: 1