CONTRACT EXTENSION: Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye has extended his contract with the Johannesburg-based franchise following speculation over his future.

The tighthead prop was reportedly on the radar of French giants Toulouse who were willing to buy him out of his contract that expired in 2026, but the 25-year-old has put pen to paper that will see him ply his trade at Ellis Park until at least 2028.

“I’m here to stay! This means a lot to me,” the former Junior Bok said.

“Having been part of the Lions family since my school days, and now getting the opportunity to stay for a few more years is incredibly special to me.

“To all the Lions fans – I look forward to seeing a whole lot more of you at Ellis Park.”