Captain Pieter-Steph du Toit fired up for special All Blacks showdown at Ellis Park

Du Toit fronted the media after the Boks had completed their on-field preparations for Saturdayâ™s first Test between the two rugby giants at Ellis Park.

"It's a very different tournament," said the two-time World Rugby Player of the Year.

"To be involved in a series like this and have New Zealand play in South Africa, and also playing four games in a row is a massive honour and privilege.

"And to have the opportunity to play against them again, especially at Ellis Park, is very special for me and the whole team, so I really hope we can make the best of Saturday.

"It's an awesome stadium for us and it's close to my heart. When you stand there and sing the anthem and see the supporters behind the Springboks, it's unbelievable. And of course, the 1995 Rugby World Cup was won there as well, so it's a very special place for our country."

Du Toit went on to speak highly of centurion Damian de Allende, who follows in the footsteps of his teammates Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi and only a handful of former Bok legends who have had the honour of playing 100 Test matches.

"To see Damian playing his 100th Test for the Springboks is special, and it's an unbelievable honour to play alongside him," continued du Toit.

"I still remember the first time I watched him at the Stormers. He played on the wing and I just saw this beast in the way he carried the ball and his work on defence.

"I have so much respect for him, the way he carries himself on and off the field, and how he's grown as a person. It's great to see people progress in life."

Du Toit looked forward to facing the haka once again, and reiterated what Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus said earlier in the week about the team having a greater understanding about what it means to the All Blacks and for the opposition.

"I would never say we'd be relaxed, but it's a massive honour to face the haka," he added.

"Just as Tony (Brown, Bok assistant coach) has helped us understand what it stands for, each individual player will have a personal meaning of what standing there is. We'll face the haka with respect and we'll accept the challenge."

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