Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph is describing Lions captain Warren Whiteley's unavailability for their Super Rugby semifinal as a big loss.
Ruan Ackermann will take Whiteley's place at the back of the scrum on Sunday morning in Johannesburg, after he was ruled out with a calf injury.
Joseph says it's a major blow, but there are always injuries and what happens is the player that comes in steps up well.
Jaco Kriel will captain the Lions in Whiteley's absence.
