Lions spring a surprise in landing Nic Groom

The Lions have completed a major signing as they aim to get their Super Rugby campaign back on track.

Franchise CEO Rudolf Straeuli on Tuesday confirmed that former Stormers stalwart and Springbok group member Nic Groom has joined the team.

The 28-year-old scrumhalf has been released with immediate effect by his English club Northampton.

“The time has come for me to return to South Africa. An opportunity has come up to return home, and I am grateful to the Club for allowing me to head back early to try and make my mark,” Groom said in a statement.

The Lions had been papering over the cracks following Faf de Klerk’s departure to Sale last year.

Young Marco Jansen van Vuren had an impressive Currie Cup but Springbok Ross Cronje is the only experienced No 9 in the Super Rugby group.

His absence through injury had been keenly felt the past few weeks.

“We’re very happy to have recruited a players like Nic, who’s been around the block,” Straeuli told The Citizen.

“We’ve identified the need to an experienced guy to help out Ross. Nic is a fine candidate, he’ll fit in well with out team culture.”

Groom could even be considered immediately to make his Lions debut against his old team when the two foes meet at Ellis Park on Saturday.

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