Fourie joined Leeds from Rotherham Titans in 2007

Leeds flanker Hendre Fourie says he is honoured to be making his England Saxons debut against Italy A on Sunday.

The 30-year-old, who was born in South Africa, qualifies for England through residency and has been selected after an impressive Premiership season.

"It means a lot to play for England and it's privilege and honour to represent them at such a high level," Fourie told BBC Radio Leeds.

"I will be full of pride on game day and am really looking forward to it."

The former Rotherham Titans man will start at open-side flanker in Treviso after previously being tipped to make the step up to international level by Leeds head coach Neil Back.

"When I signed the papers to be able to play for England in the summer there was a lot of hype about it," explained Fourie. "So I tried my best and did as well as I could and got the call.

"I think my selection comes after years of hard work from me and my coaching staff.

"It's the first time I've been in a national squad with players from lots of different clubs, so it was difficult at first.

"I'm really enjoying it so I would be very happy if I could be involved with England much more in the future, but that's up to me to play well."

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