Tshituka brothers could feature for Lions in United Rugby Championship clash against Leinster

Johannesburg - There is the possibility, however slight it may seem, that the Tshituka brothers could still find themselves opposing the mighty Leinster on the RDS Arena pitch on Friday, according to Ricardo Laubscher.

Vincent and younger brother Emmanuel were denied entry into Ireland on Monday afternoon due to “a bit of paperwork regarding their visas”, but the Emirates Lions’ backline, attack and skills coach on Tuesday explained that the team was still hopeful that the duo will play a part in the United Rugby Championship (URC) clash this weekend.

“We are just waiting for confirmation,” said Laubscher. “It’s obviously Day 2 for us now, but behind the scenes we are working on it. Hopefully, we can get a good outcome.”

The Lions are currently on a four-match losing streak in the URC, so if there is even the slightest possibility that a fit and ready Vincent Tshituka can be selected, with his equally powerful brother ready to explode from off the bench, you can bet your bottom dollar that head coach Ivan van Rooyen will scribble in at least one of their names for the encounter.

ALSO READ: Stormers success is down to their improvement in defence

The Lions’ think-tank will certainly have to rethink their current strategy ahead of an extremely tough encounter, and if the Tshitukas are unable to participate in the match, they certainly will have to rework their loose-trio. Although it is early days, it could be speculated that the unit will consist of Jaco Kriel, Sibusiso Sangweni and Franke Horn, with Lunga Ncube acting as cover – if Vincent and Emmanuel remain ineligible.

The other question swirling around matchday 23, is who will slot in at flyhalf. With Fred Zeilinga dropped from the side, and the return of the talented