Springbok great Bryan Habana remains optimistic of a Test recall despite being left out of the squad for the three-game series against France.

Speaking to EWN’s Jean Smyth, Habana confirmed that he is not yet ready to call time on his illustrious international career.

The 34-year-old is the second most prolific scorer in the history of the game with 67 tries in 124 Tests for South Africa. He only needs two more tries to equal the record of 69 tries, held by Japan’s Daisuke Ohata.

Habana last played for the Boks in the 20-18 defeat against Italy last year and has had an indifferent season for his French club Toulon. The winger missed the latter part of the European season due to a knee injury.

‘I’ve had an open and honest chat to Allister [Coetzee] about where I stand and I really appreciate the fact that he picked up he phone and gave me a call,’ said Habana. ‘He has told me where I stand and where he sees me and for that I’m very appreciative. I’ve got to sort myself out from a health and physical point of view in terms of getting back onto the park and being at 100%.’

Although Habana is hopeful of playing for the Boks again, he admitted that he might not be around for much longer.

‘Allister has been honest about where he wants to take this team and I’m not too sure that I’m going to be around in 2019. I think at the moment I’m not closing the door just yet. If there’s maybe an opportunity later on through injuries that I’m involved, then I’d definitely grab that with both hands.’

‘Do I believe I can still make an impact? Probably … but given how the likes of a Courtnall Skosan, Raymond Rhule and Dillyn Leyds have been playing, I think South African rugby is in good hands. At the moment, like everyone else, I’m going to be one unbelievably proud Springbok supporter.’

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