Speedy Lions wing/fullback Jaco Booysen has been given until Thursday to prove his match fitness after an injured groin, but is highly doubtful for Saturday's Ellis Park Vodacom Cup date with the North West Leopards.
His absence would eliminate one of Lions' attacking claws and force coach Hugo van As to make changes he would not otherwise have contemplated.
His options are to pair Sax Chirwa with Kaya Malotana in midfield and choose Randfontein's Rynhard Scholtz on the left wing.
He could also contemplate playing Gordon Frasca, usually a centre, on the wing. Ex-Wallaby scrumhalf Brett Johnstone will start off with Jacques van Niekerk on the bench.
Johnstone could be partnered by exciting 20-year-old newcomer Gareth Wright, who showed enough during a replacement spell against the Griffons to warrant a chance ahead of Johnny Wearne, who is also injured.
The champions also have to make a change at No 8 where fit-again Russell Winter is recalled for Greg Bruwer.
Possible team
Gielie de Swardt; George Makwena, Kaya Malotana, Sax Chirwa/Eugene Marx, Jaco Booysen/Rynhard Scholtz; Gareth Wright, Brett Johnstone; Russell Winter, Eric van der Merwe, Walter Minnaar, Hannes Strydom (capt), Francois du Toit, Nic Moore, James Dalton, Pietman van Niekerk.