Lions' chances of winning the Super Rugby title have been hit by the news that captain Warren Whiteley will miss the rest of the season with a shoulder injury.
The number eight damaged a joint in his right shoulder in South Africa's 19-13 win over Wales last Saturday and faces a spell on the sidelines.
Whiteley will be sorely missed by the South African Group leaders, who return to action against Sharks this weekend following a break for internationals.
The 28-year-old started for the Springboks in the series-decider against Wales after being named among the replacements for the first two Tests.