After three consecutive Grand Slams and a 45-13 thrashing of South Africa last year, confidence will not be a problem for an England team on an 18-match winning run even without star performers fly-half George Ford and wing Marland Yarde.

In their place Exeter stand-off Henry Slade and London Irish wing Anthony Watson come in for their first taste of Under-18 action along with Saracens lock Tom Jubb.

First up is a rematch against the junior Springboks in Port Elizabeth before tests against France and a Namibia Invitation XV in the space of eight days – and Fletcher wants to see if his side will step up to the plate.

“Age grade form varies from year to year and we had a very good side last year," said Fletcher.

“We're sure this year will be a tough tour. France are always good, Namibia will be big and strong and South Africa will be smarting from last year.

"The rugby is important but so is the experience of touring to play against new teams in different environments.

“We leave on July 12 so it's a tight schedule with a lot of travelling but that all adds to the experience.

“I like it when the players are under a bit of stress and pressure and it's good to see how they cope and react to it.

“We've got some new players stepping up into the group. Anthony Watson is a wing and full back who was probably the outstanding player in the England Under 16 programme last season.

“Henry Slade and Tom Jubb both played Under 17 matches for us and did well and all will be available at this level next season.”