Leon Lyons

Leon Lyons has built his reputation in the engine room of the Lions' forward pack, where his appetite for the unglamorous work has made him a trusted presence in the back row. Born on 2 December 1998, the flanker is defined by a relentless work rate at the breakdown and the kind of dominant tackling that sets a defensive tone. He has been a consistent starter through the Lions' Super Rugby and Currie Cup campaigns, growing into a forward his coaches lean on for turnover ball and defensive organisation. Lyons does much of his most valuable work in the contact area, slowing opposition possession, forcing turnovers and providing his side with momentum when it matters most. As a turnover specialist and defensive leader, he supplies the grit and physical edge that underpin the Lions' efforts up front, the type of openside whose influence is often felt more in disrupted attacks than on the highlight reel.