England coach Stuart Lancaster has insisted that his side are ready to face South Africa in the first match of the three-Test series.
The tourists begin the series against the Springboks at the weekend and have enjoyed just under two weeks' preparation for the encounter.
Although Lancaster is disappointed at some of the players who are absent from the tour, he is adamant that they are ready for the challenge that lies ahead.
"There is no reason I can think of why we shouldn't be ready for these Test matches," said Lancaster.
"We are obviously missing a couple of key players, as South Africa are.
"It would have been great if Tom Wood, Tom Croft, Courtney Lawes et al could have been here, but the players are fresh, hungry and really looking forward to the games."
The first clash between England and South Africa is on Saturday June 9.
Written by
Matt Cotton
Matt Cotton
