Lions investing in global market
Wed, 15 Oct 2008 08:26
From All Black to red and white: Willie Rickards
The Lions, who have already signed American captain Todd Clever, have once again dipped into the global market to bolster their stocks ahead of the Super 14 and Currie Cup competitions next year.
Willie Rickards, a 1.87m and 101kg utility back from New Zealand, is the latest player from outside the borders of South Africa to be signed for the Johannesburg-based outfit.
Rickards, who has played wing and centre for the Southland Stags in the Air New Zealand Cup competition this year, has signed a contract to play in the Super 14 and Currie Cup competitions for the Lions next year.
The 24-year-old back previously represented New Zealand in the International Rugby Board Sevens World Series and will be on the bench when the Stags face the Wellington Lions in the Air NZ Cup semifinal in Wellington on Friday.
He has played for the Highlanders before and can also play at fullback.
Clever, one of the best players in the United States team at the 2007 World Cup tournament, also signed a contract with the Lions recently. The loose forward is the current US Eagles captain.
Other notable signings by the Lions include Griquas hooker Hans van Dyk and Falcons centre Ruan Cloete - who have both signed to play for the Lions until the end of 2010.
The Lions have also secured the services of promising Western Province scrumhalf Alastair Siegelaar.
Siegelaar, who has played Under-21, Vodacom Cup and Currie Cup rugby for WP, will also be available until at least the end of 2010.
Lions CEO Manie Reynecke has also put an end to rumours that Springbok centre Jaque Fourie is looking for greener pastures.
Fourie has also been contracted until the end of 2010, as have Doppies La Grange, loosehead prop Heinke van der Merwe, No.8 Willem Alberts and versatile back Louis Ludik.
