DRAGONS and Wales star Michael Owen says Wales aren't daunted by the prospect of playing Tri-Nations champions South Africa on Saturday.

The Springboks have been in fine form and are regarded by many as the best team in the world at present, but Owen insists that there is nothing to fear from the challenge of Percy Montgomery and Co.

He said: "We are not daunted at all about playing South Africa, you can't go into games thinking like that.

"In fact, it is an exciting challenge and the game that everyone in the squad is looking forward to.

"This is what playing International rugby is all about.

"We are playing one of the best teams in the world and from a personal view the only way to improve is by playing the likes of South Africa and New Zealand."

Not many rugby supporters give Wales much of a chance of upsetting the applecart and causing a shock on Saturday but Owen is confident Mike Ruddock's side can cause an upset.

He said: "I'm confident that we can compete.

"The lads showed in the World Cup that they are a match for the world's best sides and what we need to do is put in an 80 minute performance.

"We need to learn how to finish teams off and if we can do that then we can beat teams like South Africa."

Wales full back Gareth Thomas takes charge of the team as captain for the first time on Saturday.

He said: "Training has gone really well and everyone is training with a purpose and an edge.

"We will be fully prepared and ready for this game and we will need to be because they are on a fine run of games and are full of confidence after the Tri-Nations.

"If you want to be the best then you have to beat the best and that is what we are aiming to do on Saturday.

"This is a great opportunity for the lads to show that they can perform at the highest level against the best team in the world."