Bok Test mode loading ... 'Players know what to expect,' says Nienaber after first Durban camp

Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber is satisfied that they achieved their objectives in the first of two preparation camps that concluded in Durban on Friday.

The aim of the camp was to get the players into "Test mode" after concluding their franchise and club commitments.

The squad, which did not feature players from URC finalists the Stormers, held five field training sessions and several off-field sessions.

The second training camp, scheduled for 29-31 May, will also be held in Durban.

"This camp was invaluable in getting the coaches and players on the same page in terms of our structures and systems as we prepare for this important season," Nienaber said in a statement.

"The message from the coaches from day one was that the players had to leave the camp knowing what we expect from them on and off the field in the next few months as we look to select our Rugby World Cup squad in August.

"We have another training camp in Durban in two weeks, which will feature a bigger squad as we welcome the Stormers after the United Rugby Championship Grand Final, and perhaps a few more Japanese players who have completed their club commitments.

"That camp will give us another opportunity to get the players into the swing of things before our Pretoria training camp in June."

Players invited to Springbok camp (in alphabetical order):

Lukhanyo Am (Sharks), Kurt-Lee Arendse (Bulls), Pieter-Steph du Toit (Verblitz), Thomas du Toit, Eben Etzebeth, Jaden Hendrikse, Siya Kolisi (all Sharks), Willie le Roux (Toyota Verblitz), Makazole Mapimpi, Bongi Mbonambi (Sharks), Canan Moodie (Bulls), Ox Nche (Sharks), Kwagga Smith (Shizuoka Blue Revs), Marco van Staden (Bulls), Grant Williams (Sharks)

Nienaber said he was impressed at how receptive the players