The Lions start their campaign with three tough games away from home, against the new franchise the Sunwolves in Tokyo on February 27, followed by the Chiefs in Hamilton on March 5 and the Highlanders in Dunedin on March 12. Minnie, 29, the most experienced campaigner in the Lions squad, having made his debut 10 years ago back in 2006, could in fact miss the first six matches with his return being targeted for mid-April which could mean the clash against the Stormers on April 16 at Ellis Park.
Minnie, who also played three games for the Sharks on loan in 2013, tore knee ligaments towards the end of the previous Super Rugby campaign which ruled him for the entire Currie Cup.
But according to the Lions camp, his rehabilitation is on track, although he won’t be rushed back into action.
