England batsman Ravi Bopara has said that he is "looking forward" to testing himself against South Africa after his return to the Test squad.

Bopara has replaced Jonny Bairstow in the squad for the Proteas series and is expected to bat at number six, where he hopes he will be able prove himself against one of the best bowling attacks in Test cricket.

"This is a time to test yourself and I'm looking forward to it," Bopara told ecb.co.uk.

"You have to back yourself no matter what - red ball, white ball - it is different cricket, but at the end of the day you still do the basics and try hit the ball whenever it's in your area.

"I presume I'll be batting at number six [on Thursday]. I'm looking forward to it. It's a good challenge and it's nice to be back in the Test squad."

The first Test in the three-match series begins tomorrow at the Oval.