'Energetic' Boks ready for France

The Bok squad assembled in Plettenberg Bay on Monday and, according to new captain Warren Whiteley, are looking forward to the three-Test series against France next month.

Whiteley and the bulk of the Bok squad will spend the rest of the week in Plettenberg Bay – where they will have several training and recovery sessions, gymnasium workouts, undertake medical check-ups and participate in various team-building activities.

Utility back Frans Steyn will arrive from France on Wednesday, May 31, while loose forward Duane Vermeulen is expected to join the squad in Pretoria on June 6, because of club commitments in France this coming weekend.

Whiteley said the squad is excited and eager to resume training for the series against France.

"It is something we are really looking forward to," the captain said.

"It is a fantastic opportunity for us.

"There are a couple of new ideas from [some of] the new coaches.

"It is nice to be away, to focus on each other and grow as a group.

"Coming from different unions we are building together for one cause – the Springboks.

"Even though it is the first day of the camp, I can already sense the energy and the good vibe amongst the players.

"It's really nice to come together here as a group and to focus on building those relationships as we look forward to meeting France next month," added Whiteley.

The squad will travel to Pretoria on Sunday, where the first of the three-match series against France will take place on June 10.