VIDEO: Kriel eager to unlock next level at Lions

PROFILE: Richard Kriel is eager to take his career to the next level at the Lions.

The 23-year-old joined the Lions from Italian URC side Zebre at the start of the 2023/24 United Rugby Championship season.

Born in Potchefstroom, the young Kriel started his youth career with Cheetahs before moving to the Bulls in 2020 with older brother David Kriel.

However, the younger Kriel really struggled to get regular URC game time with the Bulls and eventually opted to move to Italy before finding himself back in South Africa at the Lions.

"Joining the Lions is a massive honour for me. It is a great [franchise] and they got some exciting players and coaches." Kriel told reporters.

"I'm enjoying my time at the Lions a lot at the moment, but I really want to get myself more involved come game time.

"I think with our games overseas, the conditions made it harder for the outside backs. However, we will see what happens in the upcoming games when we have some sunny weather in South Africa."

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Thus far, Kriel has featured in all of the Lions' games.

However, the livewire utility back has struggled to get going and has only scored one try in five appearances.

He is set to start against his former team this weekend, which is an ideal opportunity to get some tries to his name.

Kriel knows it will not be that easy and has urged the Lions not to underestimate Zebre.

"They [Zebre] recorded a win over the Sharks and drew with Cardiff last week, so they are playing really good rugby at the moment," Kriel noted.

"I think if you give them space they will punish you.

"They are very passionate and love their rugby.

"We should really not underestimate them and if we stick to our process we will be fine."

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Living with Boet

Since his return to South Africa, Kriel has been living with his older brother David Kriel, who is plying his trade at the Bulls.

"We are currently living in Pretoria and life is good," Kriel revealed.

"We do share tips and talk about rugby.

"However, we are professionals and don't share team plays."

The two brothers face each other in January when the Lions head to Loftus Versfeld to take on the Bulls in Round Nine.

For the family, it will certainly be a profound moment, with Kriel revealing it will not sway their father to pick a side.

"My dad usually doesn't support any of the teams he supports us.

"And when you asked him my dad usually says he supports rugby, and then whoever wins he says congratulations.

"And when you lose he usually shakes your hand and says better luck next time."