Lions lock down key scrumhalf

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The Lions have announced that Morne van den Berg has signed a new contract extension to keep him in Johannesburg beyond the 2023 World Cup.

Van den Berg’s agency, In Touch Sports, has confirmed that the scrumhalf extended his contract for an additional two years until 2024.

The 24-year-old, who made his senior debut for the Lions in 2017, is a key player for the Johannesburg franchise, impressive with his work rate, clean and quick service from the breakdown and enterprising play.

His style of play and blonde hair has earned him comparisons with Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Kerlk, who also shot to stardom at Ellis Park.

Recently Van den Berg has stepped up in the injury enforced absence of Andre Warner and formed a solid halfback combination with Jordan Hendrikse, which has helped the Lions claim home wins over Cardiff, Munster and the Ospreys.

In an interview with IOL Sport, Van den Berg, who has scored four tries in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, admitted he enjoys when the game opens up.

“I really do enjoy broken play and trying to beat defenders,” he said, “But I won’t say I am instinctively looking for sniping. It is more about being aware of where the space is – is it by the rucks or is it out wide?

“It’s about always being mindful of where the space is and what is best for the team.”

Photo: Lee Warren/Gallo Images

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Dylan Jack