Lions announce signings, departures

Johannesburg - The Golden Lions have announced the signing of several new players, while also confirming the departure of some stalwarts.

Springbok flyhalf Marnitz Boshoff will leave the union, along with JW Bell, Martin Muller, MB Lusaseni, Steph de Wit, Ruaan Lerm and Ramone Samuels.

It was earlier reported that Boshoff will play for Irish club Connacht.

Meanwhile, the new signings include Marvin Orie, Sti Sithole, Johannes Jonker, Aphiwe Diyantyi and Dean Gordon.

“I would like to express gratitude to the players leaving us, for giving 100% of their efforts to the game, the team and the organisation. Good luck. In the same vein we welcome all the newcomers in our fold and we hope that you will prosper under our banner," said Rudolf Straeuli, CEO of the Lions Rugby Company (Pty) Ltd.

The Lions also announced the signing of a few promising Under-21 players.
 
Seniors players joining the GLRU:

Marvin Orie (lock, Bulls)
Sti Sithole (prop, WP)
Johannes Jonker (prop, Border)
Aphiwe Diyantyi (wing, UJ)
Dean Gordon (wing, Raiders)
 
Under-21 players who will make their way to the Lions:

Ruan Brits (hooker, WP)
Nyasha Tarusenga (flanker, WP)
Bheki Shongwe (prop, Leopards)
Cyprian Nkomo (centre, WP)
Jaco Willemse (lock, WP)
 
Senior players leaving the union:

Marnitz Boshoff (flyhalf)                               
Martin Muller (lock)
MB Lusaseni (lock)
JW Bell (utility back)
Steph de Wit (loose forward)
Ruaan Lerm (loose forward)
Ramone Samuels (loose forward)