No complacency: Siya Kolisi expects fired-up England to bring their best to Ellis Park

Despite being firm favourites for the game, Kolisi insisted the world champions are fully aware of the threat posed by Steve Borthwick's side despite the difference in the teams' world rankings.

The Boks are first in the world while England are only sixth, but the Bok captain realises that will count for little at Ellis Park on Saturday.

"We listen to our coaches, and we know what it feels like to be beaten," said Kolisi.

"We never walk into any match feeling like we're definitely going to win. If we did, we wouldn't have prepared the way we prepared this week. We've seen what England have done in Tests before, and we know the form they're in, so we are in a strong mindset as a team.

"Playing against them is always a big deal. They always pitch up, and we're excited because we know how big it's going to be for them and for us as well.

England may have come off a disappointing Six Nations campaign, but Kolisi said that would not cloud their judgement about them as a top-quality team.

"We've analysed them, and results-wise, I don't think we can take too much from their Six Nations campaign because if you look at their last game against France, they almost won it in the final seconds, and France is one of the best teams in the world.

"They are going to be psyched up for this match and will pitch up physically. They almost took us out of the (2023) World Cup in the semi-final, and something we learned from that game is that if you don't execute your plan very well against England, they have the potential to punish you.

"They are physically aggressive, even under the high balls. So, whatever they've done in the past won't matter. What will make the difference is if we pitch up. We know they're in a good mental space, and several players are in form for their clubs, so they'll bring good energy. If we don't pitch up and execute in the set pieces and in our kicking game, we're going to be in trouble."

Of the prospect of facing Tom Curry in their loose trio, Kolisi added: "He's one of the toughest guys I've ever played against. I remember since 2018, and then in the 2019 Rugby World Cup Final too. He's a special human being, and I love playing against him. Tomorrow's going to be no different."

Meanwhile, Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick also explained why the Boks are wary of their opponents, saying England's selection reflects a team full of confidence and energy.

"If you look at their rewarding performances from their club players, and a guy like Finn Smith at 10 ahead of an experienced player like George Ford, they'll bring a lot of energy," said Stick.

"Their backline has players with massive speed and an X-factor, so those players will bring it.

"That said, we've also prepared well, and we know it's going to be a tough game. Matches between us mainly start up front, and England take pride in how they operate there, so we'll make sure we get our boys ready because it's going to be a massive Test. They also have a strong kicking game, so it will be a challenge, but we'll be prepared."

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