British and Irish Lions wing Ugo Monye, speaking to rugby365 editor Pete Murison, is well aware of the challenge which awaits the Lions in South Africa but insists he cannot wait to get on the plane and get the great adventure underway.

Monye, who will be in action for Harlequins this weekend in their Guinness Premiership playoff match with London Irish, was part of the English team which was humbled 42-6 by the Springboks at Twickenham last November.

Having survived that experience though, and now emerged to impress enough to earn a spot in the British and Irish Lions squad, the Quins star is adamant that the Home Nations team will be ready to frontup against John Smit and his men this summer.

Rather than being arrogant however, Monye, a very religious man, says he has huge respect for the Springboks and particularly the great passion the people of the country have for the game of rugby. 

"I played South Africa in the autumn and that was an incredible gruelling encounter - the most physical game I've ever been involved in - and I know going to South Africa, where there is a rugby culture, and rugby is the national sport, and they live the passion of the game, [will be even harder.].

"I've seen [the determination of South Africans] here at Harlequins with Gary Botha and De Wet Barry, and Andre Vos over the years, and it’s easy to see the passion that has been instilled in them.”

Something of a surprise selection when the squad was announced last month, the 26 year-old flyer admitted that he was extremely proud to have been named in Ian McGeechan’s squad and had full confidence in the 37-man party to cause an upset. 
 
"To go out there on any tour, let alone one with the Lions, to play the World Champions in their backyard is the biggest test.

"You look at the squad which we have got, along with the manager and the coaches which are taking us out, and everything the badge means to each and everyone player that has been selected, it’s going to be incredible.

"It is going to be an amazing tour and we’re going to go out there with full of confidence. We’re fully aware of the challenge ahead of us but I just can’t wait to get on that plane now!"

Especially considering all the injuries the Springboks are starting to mount up, could the Lions repeat history this summer? Who do you think is key to this series? Let us know...