Injury setbacks overshadow Lions preparations ahead of Ulster clash

Springbok scrumhalf Morne van den Berg will sit out the clash due to a lingering hamstring injury sustained in the match against Benetton two weeks ago. He played less than 10 minutes before being forced off the field and has since missed the Lions' recent win over the Scarlets.

Despite nearing full fitness, the coaching staff has opted for a cautious approach, mindful of his inclusion in the upcoming Springbok end-of-year tour.

"He's almost ready, but we don't want to force him," explained assistant coach and kicking consultant Morne Steyn. "With a break coming up next week, that gives him two weeks to recover properly. He's in the Bok squad, and we'd rather not risk him now and jeopardize that opportunity."

In Van den Berg's absence, Nico Steyn started at scrumhalf last weekend, supported by Layton Horn. Junior Springbok Hashim Pead, who featured for the Lions U21s recently, is also expected to be in the matchday mix.

Further compounding the Lions' injury woes is the loss of flanker JC Pretorius, who has been ruled out for approximately four months after suffering a knee injury during the Scarlets game. The setback is particularly disheartening given that Pretorius had only recently returned from a similar knee issue.

"It's really tough losing JC," said Steyn. "He's one of our best players and brings so much energy. To have him go down again with the same knee is a big blow."

Pretorius, a former BlitzBok, has become a key figure in the Lions' forward pack, and his absence will force the team to reshuffle in what is expected to be a physically demanding contest against the Irish visitors.

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