Wikus van Heerden

Profile Paragraph: Van Heerden, son of former Springbok lock Moaner van Heerden, began his rugby career at the Lions in 2001. He remained there until the end of 2006 before he crossed the Jukskei River and joined the Blue Bulls. He remained at the Bulls for two years, where his career took off, earning him a place in the winning 2007 World Cup Springbok squad. Van Heerden then went to France for a year and a half to learn more about rugby in other countries. He made a welcome return to the Lions in 2010, much to the delight of former Lions teammates and fans. Van Heerden is a hard worker and a natural born leader, and as former captain of the Lions in 2006, he has no problem stepping up to the captaincy role when he is called on to do so. Van Heerden has worked tirelessly during 2011 and was the only player in the Currie Cup final who had been in the previous home final in 2002.