Brendan Venter says Swys de Bruin will be able to continue with Johan Ackermann's good work at the Lions.

Ackermann will leave the Joburg-based franchise at the end of the Super Rugby season to take up the head coaching role at Gloucester.

Venter, though, says the Lions can continue to be successful under De Bruin, who is currently Ackermann's assistant. 

'Ackermann's deflection to Gloucester at the conclusion of the current campaign is a setback for the Lions and SA rugby at large,' wrote Venter in his latest column for The Times.

'However, the crucial element is that a team culture isn't dependent upon one individual. 

'Assistant coach Swys de Bruin has the ability to slot in seamlessly into the head coaching role and sustain the terrific team environment, with mental coach Jannie Putter.'

Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images