South Africa winger Bryan Habana has revealed that he is looking forward to the future of the national team.
Retirements and injuries have resulted in a revamped Springboks side that will face England in the three-Test series.
New coach Heyneke Meyer has called up nine uncapped players as well as six others who have made fewer than 10 international appearances and Habana prefers to view the situation as a future full of promise rather than an inexperienced squad.
"It has changed quite drastically but it is an exciting new era," said Habana. "Seeing the vibe, the energy and the willingness of the guys at training was pretty enjoyable.
"Sometimes you forget what a privilege it is to represent your country but when you see the youngsters, and how much they want to feed and take it in, it takes you back to when you got your first cap.
"It is a huge privilege to be called up. There is a great energy, a great vibe, but that all comes to nothing if you don't go out and perform on Saturday. I'm looking forward to that challenge."
South Africa host England in the first match of the three-Test series on Saturday in Durban.
Matt Cotton
