Kriel to join Ackermann at Gloucester

Lions’ star flanker but injury-plagued Jaco Kriel, will be leaving for Gloucester who are coached by former Lions coach Johan Ackermann.

Kriel, who has earned 11 caps for the Boks and scored 21 tries in 69 Super Rugby games for the Lions, has not yet featured in this year’s Super Rugby due to a shoulder injury he picked up in 2017.

Lions CEO Rudolf Straeuli had the following to say in his confirmation of Kriel’s departure to England.

‘Jaco has unfortunately been plagued with injuries stemming from 2017’s international duty and has therefore not been able to play for the Lions this current season,’

‘We are always sad to lose a player, but to lose a player of this stature hurts the franchise and the industry.

‘We wish Jaco a speedy recovery and rehabilitation, and hope to see him plying his trade back in South Africa in the future.’