Boan Venter says ‘It’s a bit more personal’ ahead of Jukskei Derby

The two Gauteng-based franchises will lock horns at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, with the Lions seeking a third victory on the spin following wins in their opening two games against defending champions Leinster and Ospreys. 

They will be wary of a Bulls outfit looking to bounce back following their 26-22 defeat against Munster.

Venter admits a tough task awaits the team from Doornfontein when they travel for the first time this season. 

"This game is a bit more personal, because we know so many of the guys personally and some of them are good mates of ours, so we are very excited for Saturday."

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The 29-year-old also highlighted the Bulls’ strength at set-piece and expects a physical battle in Pretoria.  

The Springbok has started both URC games for the Lions this season alongside Sebastian Lombard and PJ Botha in the front row. He says it’s rewarding to share the lessons he has learned from “scrum time” in the Boks camp with the younger players at his new home.

"Scrumming against the guys in the Springbok camp is a different level and the experience teaches you a lot of lessons, and it's nice to bring those lessons back to share with the younger guys. The set-piece plays a massive role because if you get that right then everything else falls into place much easier."

Venter, who joined the Lions ahead of the new season from Edinburgh, where he made over 100 appearances becoming the seventh prop to reach such a milestone in club history, is adapting well to life in Johannesburg. He adds that his new teammates have made the transition a welcoming experience.