The 27-year-old was one of four scrumhalves named in the 33-man squad and he is expected to play a big part at the global showpiece.

The other halfbacks going to the World Cup are Faf de Klerk, Cobus Reinach and Jaden Hendrikse.

Williams made his Springbok debut in 2022 when he came of the bench in the 2nd Test against Wales in Bloemfontein.

Williams recently made his run-on debut for the Springboks, but this lasted just 10 seconds after sustaining a concussion straight after the kick-off against Argentina.

The Sharks halfback told OFM Sport that he is excited, but his focus is still on recovering.

“First of all, it's a special feeling,” said the young scrumhalf.

“Going into selection I was a bit iffy because I was knocked out cold against Argentina, so I did not know where I stood in the management’s plans.

“I'm happy, and I don't really know how to describe it, but it is a wonderful feeling.

“Regarding his return to the field, Williams, has been cleared yet and he still has to complete his return-to-play protocol before he can train and be available for selection.

“I still have a couple of days left my return-to-play protocol,” Williams added.

“Afterwards I can join the squad again for the team training sessions, but for now I'm just focussing on recovering and getting well.”

On Saturday the Springboks will fly out to Europe for their final two warm-up Tests before the World Cup. Next week the will tackle Wales in Cardiff, before facing the All Blacks at Twickenham in London.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport