Lions go global

The Lions' playing schedule for 2013 has been revealed, with the Johannesburg franchise set to play a number of international sides in a busy line-up.

Following SARU's decision to relegate them from Super Rugby next year, the Lions faced a challenge over securing competitive fixtures ahead of the promotion/relegation clash with the bottom placed South African Super Rugby side, but they have managed to ensure that they will not be short on game-time.

With home games against all of the South African Super Rugby sides already secured, the Lions will also do battle with international teams such as Samoa, Namibia and Russia, whilst they also have a number of matches with European and American sides lined up as well.

Lions 2013 playing schedule:

January 19 v Russia at Ellis Park

January 23 v Cheetahs at Ellis Park

February 2 v Bulls at Orlando Stadium

February 9 v Kings at Ellis Park

February 23 v Namibia in Windhoek

March 16 v Mont de Marsan at Ellis Park

April 13 v US Invitational in California

April 20 v US Invitational in Vancouver

April 27 v Chicago Lions in Chicago

May 11 v Agen at Ellis Park

June 1 v Samoa at Ellis Park

June 8 v French Barbarians at Ellis Park

June 15 v Stormers at Ellis Park

June 21 v Sharks at Ellis Park

July 12 v Montpellier at Ellis Park

July 20 v Grenoble at Ellis Park

July 27 - promotion/relegation - opponent and venue TBC

August 3 - promotion relegation at Ellis Park - opponent TBC