From Currie Cup to Challenge Cup — Eddie Davids relishing life at the Lions

A crumb of comfort for the Lions after losing the Currie Cup final to Griquas last year is that they have lured one of their chief tormentors, Eddie Davids, to the Pride.

The loosehead prop was a cornerstone of the Griquas' victory, admired for both his scrummaging power and his athletic contribution in general play. Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen took note and sent Davids an invitation — one that the former Hoërskool Fichardtpark student accepted with both hands.

Davids has already made six appearances this season, featuring in every one of the Lions’ Challenge Cup fixtures.

“It’s honestly been very special,” Davids said. “I’m really grateful for this wonderful opportunity. Moving to Joburg and joining the Lions has been a massive step up for me, both on and off the field.”

The environment at Ellis Park — or "The Den "— has provided a steep but rewarding learning curve. “The environment pushes you every day,” he explained. “From the coaching staff to the players, everyone’s been welcoming, which has made settling in a whole lot easier.”

Davids made his debut in the Lions’ emphatic 43–33 upset of the Bulls in Pretoria late last November. “There definitely were nerves before kick-off,” he smiled. “That’s always there when you pull on the jersey for the first time. But once the game started, those nerves quickly turned into excitement and focus. It was a proud moment for my family. I was just grateful for the opportunity and wanted to do my job for the team.”

A significant source of inspiration for the newcomer has been Asenathi Ntlabakanye, the formidable Springbok tighthead. “Asenathi is world-class,” Davids said. “What’s impressed me most is his work ethic and professionalism. I’ve learned a lot from him around set-piece detail and physical preparation.”

Davids added that he has relished the jump in intensity from the Currie Cup to elite European competition. “The biggest difference is the consistency and intensity at this level. Every moment matters. There’s very little margin for error, and teams punish you quickly. It has been great.”

The Lions are now preparing for a challenging northern hemisphere stint, travelling to Perpignan in the Challenge Cup this week before facing the Ospreys in the United Rugby Championship (URC).

“The message has been clear from the coaching staff,” Davids said. “We focus on our own processes and take it one game at a time. Touring in Europe is tough, so discipline, accuracy and effort will be crucial.”