”We need to meet them head on in every area,” England captain Jason Robinson said ahead of the first Test against South Africa in Bloemfontein on Saturday.
Robinson acknowledged England could be seen as underdogs, but said that would have been the case even if more of the regular team had been in South Africa.
”We were always going to be the underdogs, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing,” Robinson said on Thursday.
”It is a huge challenge and a great opportunity for younger players to show what they are capable of.
”We are expecting a very physical encounter. South Africa are going to try to dominate us. They have a very tough pack, and they have depth and strength, but we can’t let them take the game to us — we have to meet them head on in every area.”
A number of England players have been laid low with a stomach virus, but Robinson said this would not be a major problem.
”It’s important for the guys who are on standby to be ready to play their part and seize their opportunities,” he said.
”There are a lot of things against us, but that’s what playing at this level is all about. Our training has been good, and we are full of confidence.”
He said the return of flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson was very important. Wilkinson, who was the star of the 2003 World Cup in Australia, has been plagued by injury and has played just four Tests since England won the World Cup.
”He makes a huge difference, but one man doesn’t make a team,” said Robinson. ”It’s up to all the senior players to take responsibility. We have a lot of players who are full of talent, and it will be interesting to see how we perform under pressure.”
Wilkinson, who has recovered from the stomach bug that kept him out of Tuesday’s practice, said he was feeling fit and healthy and was looking forward to the challenge of playing against South Africa.
”We’re here to pit ourselves against a very good team,” he said. ”It’s an ideal opportunity to learn. I want to improve myself and add to my experience. The important thing for all of us is learning, and learning those harsh lessons quickly.”
Wilkinson, who was 21 during England’s tour of South Africa in 2000, said touring South Africa could be a daunting experience for a young player.
”It’s up to the older players to lead the way, and help the younger players,” he said. ”I see this as a team full of potential. We want to play to our potential and show what we can do.
”If you go into a match thinking you are going to lose, there is no point in playing,” he said. ”You always have to believe the next game is the one you are going to win.” — Sapa