Hartley: Ready for du Plessis test

Hartley has been eclipsed by South Africa's renowned number two throughout the current Test series between the countries, in which England trail 2-0 with one to play, but will not shirk challenging him again.

And he will do so in the third Test at Port Elizabeth's Nelson Mandela Stadium with the added responsibility of being captain after regular skipper Chris Robshaw pulled out injured.

Hartley said: "I'm not going to change anything, I am just going to go about my role.

"Bismarck is strong, physical - he's up there probably as number one in the world at the moment.

"But I always enjoy playing against someone who is perceived as better than me. It is a good chance to test yourself."

Hartley, 26, recently served an eight-week ban for biting an opponent but feels it is unfair to question whether he has the temperament for the job because of that.

The Northampton forward said: "I have managed (my discipline) for years.

"You have got to be physical and on the edge and I think I play like that.

"If you are questioning my temperament or discipline, I don't think there is an issue there.

"There is nothing different, I just carry on doing what I do.

"If Chris was there I would be the same, I would be vocal, talking about key points, just like there are other voices in the changing room. For me nothing changes."

Hartley sees the final Test as more than an opportunity to secure a consolation win.

Despite the defeats, England are generally perceived to be making progress under the guidance of new head coach Stuart Lancaster and a victory would serve a developing side in good stead.

Hartley said: "It's about going forward, laying down a marker so that when South Africa come to Twickenham they know what to expect. It is all part of the journey.

"It is experience, even for myself, one of the senior players. I had never toured here before.

"It's been good for me and it's invaluable to the younger boys."

The match brings to an end a long season, which in England terms began 12 months ago with the first World Cup training camps.

But Hartley insists that is not an issue for him having been forced to miss the end of the domestic season through suspension.

He said: "I had two months off so I set goals and targets and I am just happy to be back playing and within the group.

"My body is feeling rather fresh because I have only played two games in three months."