NICK Schonert said he would “love” to play for England in the country of his birth as he aims to win a place on the tour to South Africa.

The tighthead prop was born in Durban and represented the Springboks at the IRB Junior World Championship in 2011.

But the 26-year-old, who joined Worcester Warriors in 2014, is an English-qualified player thanks to a grandmother who hails from Reading.

England take on South Africa in a three-match series in June and the uncapped Schonert, who has been a prominent figure again for Warriors this season, hopes to secure his spot on the plane.

“It would be absolutely massive for me,” Schonert said.

“I never dreamed it would happen but I would love it to.

“There hasn’t been a minute that has gone by where it hasn’t been in my thoughts.

“I think about it most days so if it happened I would give everything.

“But there are so many good players in the Premiership right now that I want to stay humble and focused on the task at hand with Warriors.”

Schonert’s impressive form last season resulted in him being named in Eddie Jones’ touring party to tackle Argentina.

But the front rower was forced to pull out of the squad after suffering a fresh injury to his hand that had previously been operated on.

Despite missing the chance to earn his first senior cap, Schonert said it was a “breath-taking” experience to train with established internationals.

“It was incredible and a massive eye opener,” Schonert said.

“It was breath-taking in some parts as you go into a place where they leave nothing to chance and everything is done by the book.

“It was great to see where I was in terms of my development.

“You get to measure yourself against guys like Dan Cole who has been around for a good time and is a great tighthead. You can also see how Jack Singleton matches up against Dylan Hartley and see what they bring and think how do I get to where he is playing.

“It was a fantastic learning curve.”

Schonert has been hit with injuries this term as he sustained a blow to his ankle in September which sidelined him for almost two months before suffering a similar setback in January.

But the former Cheetahs ace has worn the number three jersey in Warriors’ last eight Aviva Premiership and admitted he had some contact with England’s coaches.

“You never know as it is just small chat, nothing serious,” said Schonert whose side visit Northampton Saints on Saturday (4pm).

“Obviously it is everyone’s dream to play international rugby and I would love to play for England.

“But at the moment we have got a game against Northampton and have got to make sure we finish off on a high before you put your focus elsewhere.”

However, Schonert felt his game had developed since he was last involved with England.

“My loose game has improved a bit, more so in defence than anything,” he added.

“But I am still happy with my set-piece as that’s my bread and butter and I am working on it every day.”