The Springboks are under no illusions as to the challenge that lies ahead of them when they kick off their Rugby Championship campaign against Australia at Loftus Versveld this weekend.
Former Springbok flyhalf Derick Hougaard has been released from hospital after battling respiratory pneumonia.
Sale Sharks have confirmed the departure of Springbok hooker Akker van der Merwe with immediate effect.
The Springboks completed their Castle Lager Rugby Championship training camp on a high note on Thursday.
South Africa's Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus hopes that Sbu Nkosi can still work his way into the reckoning for Springbok selection after being released by the Bulls this week.
Rather than seeing it as a burden, Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi believes it is a privilege that fans expect big things from the Boks in every game they play.