Cameron Hanekom described the last week with the national team in Jersey as a "dream come true" and said he was so surprised by his call-up that he initially asked if it was a joke.
The former Junior Springbok loose forward, who has been in magnificent form for the Vodacom Bulls in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship this season, is the only uncapped player in Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus’ 35-man squad after being drafted into the group as an injury replacement for Damian Willemse.
"It’s been an unbelievable experience so far, especially being with double Rugby World Cup winners and players I’ve looked up to for so long, so it’s really a dream come true and something I can’t really describe," said Hanekom.
Hanekom is eligible to play for Wales through his grandmother, however, he made it clear where his loyalties lie: “I must say I’ve always dreamed of becoming a Springbok, I will keep on working as hard as possible to make that dream come true. I’ve never thought of going to Wales or playing for them.”
"I’ve always strived to become a Springbok and although I’m not there yet, it’s just fantastic to be here and to learn as much as I can from these players."
Hanekom admitted that his call-up came as a surprise: “It just shows that you never really know (when you will get the call). I was in disbelief when I got the call and asked if it was a joke. But that said, my goal is just to contribute to the squad as much as possible over the next few weeks.”
The 22-year-old player was confident about his ability to play any position in the loose trio.
"Yeah, I must say I am versatile when it comes to playing six, seven or eight, I don’t mind playing or have a preferable position at the moment."
"It’s more about just being able to have the mental switch that every position plays its different role and doing it to the best of my ability."