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Springbok head coach Jacques Nienaber emphasised the importance of putting the necessary foundations in place and building momentum as quickly as possible as the national squad begins their preparations for their two Tests against Georgia and the Castle Lager Lions Series today.
The Springboks, who will be led by 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning captain Siya Kolisi, will kick off their preparations with a three-week conditioning camp in Bloemfontein.
The first batch of players will arrived in the Free State capital on Sunday, with the overseas-based players set to join the squad as they complete their club commitments.
“The key for us going into the camp is to ensure that we implement our structures as quickly as possible and make sure that everyone is aligned,” said Nienaber.
“With 29 Rugby World Cup players in the group, we hope to make good progress fairly quickly.
“The most important factor, however, is to get the foundations in place and reach the required standards, and then we can build from there.”
Nienaber was thrilled about the prospect of assembling a squad for the first time in his tenure as the head coach.
“I am very excited about this squad,” he said.
“For the last 18 months we have been watching their matches, sending them game clips and engaging with them about their performances from a distance, so I am looking forward to working with the players directly, especially with such an exciting season ahead.”
With the first Test against Georgia less than four weeks away, Nienaber said it was vital to build momentum from the outset in preparation for the massive challenge against the British & Irish Lions.
“It is important to build rhythm and confidence from the onset, so we will select our best available team for the first Test against Georgia - we haven’t played a Test since the World Cup final, so cohesion will be vital,” said the Bok coach.