Jannie du Plessis is pleased to be back in the South Africa squad for the upcoming Tri-Nations.

The Sharks prop was yesterday named in a 23-man line-up announced by the Springbok selectors for their opening match against New Zealand in Bloemfontein on July 25.

Du Plessis, who has seven caps to his name, was the only new face in the group to have missed out on the 2-1 series victory over the British and Irish Lions - time he says was spent in a gym trying to make up for his personal disappointment.

"I made a real effort to improve on my muscle mass," he told Beeld newspaper. "I wanted to ensure I trained so hard that the selectors had no other choice than to notice me in the Currie Cup.

"I am now chuffed with all the hard work I put in while I wasn't playing. Perhaps it is only psychological but it definitely feels as though I have improved my strength, power and speed."

The 26-year-old, a 2007 World Cup winner, last featured for the Springboks against England at the end of 2008 and he admits a return to his home district of Free State for the opening game of the Tri-Nations has left him more excited.

He continued: "My inclusion is still a big surprise. Actually, it was unexpected.

"My inclusion was the cherry on the cake for me. I am going back to Bloemfontein. My team-mates at the Sharks are joking about it and saying I'm going home."

Looking ahead to possible showdowns he may face in the weeks ahead, he added: "We all know that Benn Robinson and the rest of the Wallabies front row scrummed very well for the Waratahs.

"The All Blacks too have good props and hookers to choose from. It will be tough."

John Smit and his team will assemble in Bloemfontein tomorrow afternoon ahead of their opening match against New Zealand on Saturday week.

The tournament kicks off this Saturday when the All Blacks host Australia in the competition opener in Auckland.