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Johannesburg - Lions captain Warren Whiteley has given an emotional farewell speech to stalwart Jaco Kriel, who is on his way to Gloucester.
The Lions take on the Crusaders in the 2018 Super Rugby final in Christchurch on Saturday - their third final in as many years - and they will do so without Kriel, who has been battling injury this season.
Following Saturday's semi-final win over the Waratahs at Ellis Park, Whiteley gave a speech in honour of Kriel at the post-match function in front of players, staff and family.
Respected rugby journalist Brenden Nel was present at the function, and he captured the tearful goodbye.
It doesn't take Whiteley long to choke up as he looks back on his 10-year relationship with the 28-year-old Kriel.
Kriel will be joining former coach Johan Ackermann at Gloucester alongside former Lions team-mates Ruan Dreyer, Franco Mostert and Ruan Ackermann.
WATCH: Whiteley's emotional 'goodbye' to Jaco Kriel
