Lions centre Henco van Wyk believes his experience with the South Africa ‘A’ in the northern hemisphere saw him take “another step” on his journey to representing the Springboks.

Van Wyk, who started for SA ‘A’ in defeats to Munster and the Bristol Bears in the UK, is back in the Republic as the Lions prepare to host the Dragons at Ellis Park in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship on Sunday.

Prior to his European tour, the 21-year-old emerged as a future Bok and one of the standout talents in the 2022-23 URC, thanks to his explosiveness on attack and uncompromising defence.

ALSO: By the numbers: Lions vs Dragons

Speaking in the build up to the visit from the Dragons to the Highveld, Van Wyk told media: “It was a massive honour to represent the country with that badge on my chest. No money can buy that… It is another step towards the real jersey.

“The experience you build up there playing alongside Test players – in the one match we had 14 Springboks – and what you learn from them is cool stuff. From the opposition, you learn stuff that might work for you back home.

“So ja, it wasn’t a very successful tour winning-wise but I will definitely say I came back a better rugby player. I learnt a lot while I was there from the coaching staff and that is a win for me.”

MORE: Dobbo’s Diary: Bring the big noise on Friday!

Meanwhile, Lions wing Edwill van der Merwe is excited for what the Joburgers expect will be a “good, running” game of rugby against the Welsh.

“The Dragons are a team that likes to run the ball, and this is also something we would also like to do,” he said.

“The important thing is that we first dominate the physical aspects and then speed up the game.”

URC 2022/23: Get to know Welsh teams

Photo: @Springboks/Twitter