Inexperienced Proteas galvanised for New Zealand Tests

South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad insisted on Thursday that a lack of Test experience was "galvanising" his Proteas side for the two-match series in New Zealand.

The Proteas have brought a weakened side to play the Black Caps, with many first-choice South African players committed to their domestic Twenty20 competition.

Eight of the 15-man squad have yet to play Test cricket, including captain Neil Brand.

Fast bowler Duanne Olivier has the most experience with 15 Test appearances. The 31-year-old is looking to restart a Test career stalled by injuries.

"We are all aware of why the side is what it is," Conrad told reporters in Christchurch before the two-Test series, which starts next week.

"We have made peace with it a long time ago.

"It's a conversation which has been well ventilated and discussed. If anything, it's been used as a galvanising agent."

He said his new-look South African team is desperate to defend their record of having never lost a Test series to New Zealand, dating back to the 1931/32 season.

"We have guys here who are out to prove both to themselves and show the strength of the Proteas lies not only in the top 11 (players).

"We are here as a Proteas side - not a second- or third-rate side.

"The fact New Zealand have never beaten us in a series, that looms large. It's a proud feat that we don't easily want to surrender."

He said jet lag after the long flight from Johannesburg had been "a bit of a struggle" but his side had enjoyed a "really good build-up" so far in New Zealand.

"We are looking forward to a really good battle on the field," he said.

Conrad said his squad has a lot of first-class experience, insisting they are not underdogs.

"I don't think any South African likes to be regarded as an underdog, we