South Africa hooker Bismarck du Plessis has said that the Springboks are optimistic coming into the Rugby World Cup, citing big tournament experience as something that the team can use to their advantage.
The 31-year-old is one of nine World Cup winners included in South Africa's squad for the tournament that begins on September 18.
"I know not a lot is expected of us but we have great expectations. We give ourselves a chance," the man with 73 international caps told reporters at South Africa's Sussex base.
"There could be seven games and the pressure mounts and we experienced players have been in the situation where you have to perform under the pressure. We have a good blend of youth and experience.
"It's all about how you peak at the big tournaments. We've trained really hard and players like myself have been here before and now we can do our talking on the field."
South Africa, whose only current injury doubt is lock Eben Etzebeth, take on Japan in their opening World Cup fixture at Brighton Community Stadium on September 19.
Colm Hayes
