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Johannesburg - Joining the Lions from English Premiership club Bath, is part of Butch James’ plan to impress the Springbok selectors ahead of the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand later this year, but the 2007 gold medallist is under no illusions as to what will be required to make the team.
"I think during the Tri-Nations he (Springbok coach Peter de Villiers) was trying to get us back here to give us a chance, but we can’t go on that alone as we still have to play well leading up to the tournament," James said in his first interview wearing a Lions jersey.
"If I should miss out on selection and someone better suited to the Springboks' game plans gets the nod, I will be happy with that. One always has to look at the bigger picture."
James had been contracted to Bath until the end of 2012, but the Lions have convinced him to finish his career in Johannesburg.
Another World Cup winner - Ulster prop BJ Botha - is also believed to be close to completing a move back home and is currently in talks with Robert Gumede and Ivor Ichikowitz who are bankrolling the Johannesburg franchise.
While returning to South Africa where he will get married this week, was an exciting prospect, James admitted living in Gauteng as opposed to KwaZulu-Natal, was a difficult decision to make.
"It wasn’t easy. I’ve grown-up in Sharks country and played for the Sharks for many years, so they are a very dear team to me, but I think the Lions have really made a big effort to get me here and the least I can do is to repay them on the field," he said.
He admitted Johannesburg would, however, present a pleasant change from weather conditions in Europe for his soon-to-be wife.
"She’s very happy to get out of the rain and was looking forward to the challenge as well.
"We don’t know what to expect in Joburg, but everyone I’ve spoken to who have moved from Durban, love it," he said.
"My brother has moved up from Durban a couple of months ago and he’s loving it and we are really looking forward to it."
Butch James emerges wearing a Lions jersey (SA Rugby)
