A four-day training camp to finalise the Springbok squad for the home leg of the Tri-Nations got underway in Johannesburg on Tuesday.
A group of 29 players assembled with the squad expected to be trimmed to 24 on Friday.
The first Test of the home leg is against the All Blacks at National Stadium on August 21.
The players took part in a fitness and game phases training session at Hyde Park High School in the afternoon and will hold further sessions on Thursday and Friday.
The squad to do duty in the three home matches will reassemble in Johannesburg on Sunday August 15.
“The players have had a break to reflect on the disappointments of the tour and they understand what is needed to turn things around,” said coach Peter de Villiers.
“We have identified the areas that need improvement and will be focussing on these in the build up to the first Test”.
The camp heralded the return to the fold of wing JP Pietersen and flank Juan Smith, who have recovered from injury. Other players recovering from recent operations — Bismarck du Plessis, Heinrich Brüssow and Fourie du Preez — also joined the group in Johannesburg.
“It’s good to have players coming back into the squad” said de Villiers.
“There is a very good mood in the camp and a clear determination amongst the players to give a get things back on course”.
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.