Barbarians vs Wales: Hooker Elliott D set to play against home nation

Dee embraced the new experience and believed that the Barbarians could survive the professional era.

“It’s probably the most fun I’ve ever had on the field and it was a class trip,” Dee said.

“I think the game needs that. It can be very serious now. There’s a lot of pressure and a lot of risk all the time.

“Sometimes it can take away the enjoyment. There’s nothing like it. It’s been an amazing experience with so many men.

“Not knowing anyone 10 days ago, now being close companions on and off the field, something special.”

And Dee believes the new-look Ba-Bas team can make it onto the field this weekend.

“I was surprised at how quickly we worked together,” he added.

“The pressure is off, you try things you might not try in a Test team.

“For some reason Ba-Bass jerseys don’t seem to come off that often.”

The Barbarians’ fluid nature has been demonstrated this week by the arrival of South Africa’s double World Cup-winning scrum-half de Klerk.

Seven days after being part of the Springboks squad that suffered a heavy defeat to Ba-Bas, de Klerk will captain the invitational side against Wales this weekend.

“He’s so full of energy, he’s rarely gone,” said Dee.

“He’s a big character and leads the team well and brings a lot of excitement.

“I’m sure he’s going to try some bits and bobs over the weekend and try to keep the crowd going.”