Danny Wilson’s side are unbeaten in the competition so far, reaching the last four after wins against Samoa, Scotland and Argentina.
Hughes has formed a solid centre partnership with Jack Dixon and the two both start again tomorrow in Vannes. It’s a second semi-final in as many years for Wales but if they are to reach the final, Hughes knows his side will have to shutout the Springboks.
“A big target for us going into the tournament was to keep the high standards of our defence and it has kept us in the game at times,” said Hughes.
“It’s going to be vital in this semi-final that we put our bodies on the line and defend like we have been throughout the tournament.”
After a physical encounter with Argentina last Thursday, there were some tired bodies in the Wales camp. But after seeing the injury situation improve, Wilson has been able to name much the same team which featured against the Pumas.
The only change comes in the back three. Hughes’ Llanelli team mate Jordan Williams comes in at full back with Hallam Amos moving to the left wing and Ashley Evans on the right.
“We set a target at the start of the campaign to get to the semi-finals and we’d like to keep going now and get one step further,” said Hughes.
“Last year’s group did exceptionally well and we want to match that. It’s important for us now to keep pushing and get through to the final.
“South Africa are a very good team, they’re very physical and we know we’ve got a big task ahead of us. We haven’t got anything to lose though so we can give it our all to try and get to the final.”
The Junior Springboks will no doubt push Wales all the way though Dawie Theron’s side will be without lock Jannes Kirsten after he suffered a fractured cheekbone in training.
“We’ve played against Samoa who were also very physical but South Africa have a running threat from the back as well,” added Hughes.
“We’ve got some boys who played last year so we’ll have plenty of experience. It helps everyone that they’ve been through it before and they know the occasion.
“I’d love to win the Junior World Championship and get some game time with the Scarlets next season. But it’s all about the match with South Africa and we’ll see where we are from there.”
