Johan Goosen is delighted to be back in the green and gold when South Africa ‘A’ team face Munster at the Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork on Thursday.

Goosen will start at halfback alongside scrumhalf Herschel Jantjies in a squad that will feature 14 Springboks within the South Africa ‘A’ team.

Although Goosen is expecting a tough battle against Munster, he is relishing the opportunity of representing the country.

“It doesn’t matter in what form of green and gold one plays in,” said Goosen.

“It could be the SA Schools team or SA ‘A’ team, it’s always an honour to play for this badge. Hopefully, we have a good game on Thursday and make the country proud.

“There was a lot of travel to get here, but I’m excited to play with this bunch of guys. This is a great opportunity for the players. They are a great group, and they are very talented.

“It’s going to be a big match against Munster, and the first 20 minutes will be tight, so it will be important to stay in the fight, and hopefully we’ll be able to see the young players express themselves.

“The Vodacom Bulls played against them a few weeks ago in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, so some of us have had a taste of what to expect from them in this match.”

Goosen admits that he has not given up on his dream of being called up to the Springboks squad after he was denied the opportunity last season after sustaining a knee injury.

“I was out for the last 11 or 12 months with a knee injury and it was challenging for me both mentally and physically,” he added.

“But mentally I’m now in a good place and my mindset is right. I have a passion for the Springboks and playing for the team, but I also understand that things are not necessarily going to come right in one game. That said I’m very happy to be here, and that is the most important thing to me.

“The big thing for young players getting an opportunity to play in the green and gold is to enjoy it and soak up every moment.”

Photo by Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix