In the first-Test aftermath, ex-Wales and Lions centre John Devereux feared Wales star Byrne could be ruled out of the two remaining Tests after being taken off in the 37th minute.

BBC: Lions call for Wasps prop Payne

Former Scotland number eight John Beattie travelled on two Lions tours in the 1980s.

BBC: Telfer worried by low Lions count

De Villiers' own captain John Smit paid tribute to his Lions counterpart, ahead of the first Test in Durban on 20 June.

BBC: Boks surprised by O'Connell pick

Thirteen Irish players - including replacements Gordon D'Arcy and John Hayes - featured on the Lions tour, while two more - Tomas O'Leary and Jerry Flannery - were forced to withdraw from the original squad because of injury.

BBC: Ireland omit five Ulster players

Back in 1997 John Bentley scorched up the Ellis Park turf on his way to a superb solo try against the Gauteng Lions, the former name of the Golden Lions.

BBC: Golden Lions 10-74 Lions