Loose forward Pierre Spies is hoping to make a significant impact in Super Rugby in 2015 as he returns from numerous injuries (thumb and bicep) which have kept him out for almost two years.

“My goals for the 2015 season is to help the Bulls win the Super Rugby title and to play my way back into the Springbok squad ahead of the World Cup,” said Spies.

The No. 8, though, knows he will face an uphill battle to get back into the national team because he is up against some stiff competition.

“The loose forward department is one area where South Africa never lacks quality,” added Spies.

“This will make things tougher, but it will also motivate me to work harder. If I can give my best on the field, I believe I will get there [make the Springbok squad].”

Spies has 53 appearances for the Springboks, scoring seven tries. He was selected as Bulls captain for the 2014 Super Rugby campaign, but that was short lived as he injured his bicep in the early rounds.