The Lions' hopes of a late-season surge were dashed on Saturday as they slumped to a 42-31 defeat against Benetton at Ellis Park, ending their playoff aspirations in the United Rugby Championship.
The Sharks snatched a dramatic 18–17 victory over Edinburgh in the United Rugby Championship, thanks to a final-play try from Makazole Mapimpi in a rollercoaster encounter.
The Lions return to the familiar surroundings of Emirates Airline Park on Saturday, looking to arrest a worrying run of form in the United Rugby Championship following a winless tour of Europe.
The Stormers have named their side to take on Irish side Connacht at the DHL Stadium on Saturday, highlighted by the return from injury of Warrick Gelant and Seabelo Senatla.
Bulls skipper Ruan Nortje has identified their lineout play and game speed as areas which need to improve when they face Munster in Saturday's United Rugby Championship (URC) clash at Thomond Park.
Stormers lock Ruben van Heerden is set to earn his 50th cap for the 2022 United Rugby Championship winners when they face Connacht at DHL Stadium on Saturday afternoon.