"The training ground is meant to be the most hostile. That's where it must all happen so when the captain goes in the match, he will be absolutely sure of what everyone can give him." Donald told 'ESPNCricinfo'.
"It starts with the A team. That's where the message must get across so that the players aren't scared and know what international cricket is about."
South Africa's A team will be in Zimbabwe this week to take part in an ODI tri-series which also includes Australia A.
"I want the younger guys to punch a hole into the line up and not just sit and wait for their turn."
Donald had almost committed to taking over as New Zealand's bowling coach before the offer from South Africa came along but the legendary pacer said he ramains friends with Kiwi players.
"We had just started to spark something there and I think the players were looking forward to what was going to happen. I had been in close contact with some of the guys during the IPL, like Brendon and Nathan McCullum," he said.