Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth stated unequivocally on Tuesday that the team viewed their final Rugby World Cup warm-up game against New Zealand as a fully-fledged Test match.
One of global rugby's greatest rivalries will be reignited at Twickenham in London next week when the Springboks and All Blacks compete for a brand-new trophy.
The recent rise of Scotland has caused a few additional headaches for the Springbok coaching staff as they look to negotiate a very tricky pool at the Rugby World Cup.
Springbok lock Marvin Orie has described second-row partner Eben Etzebeth as an inspiration ahead of Saturday's Rugby Championship encounter against Argentina in Johannesburg.
The Springboks have confirmed that Eben Etzebeth will still captain the side against the All Blacks in Auckland despite suffering a personal loss.
Eben Etzebeth will make his return from a shoulder injury when he captains the Springboks against New Zealand in Auckland on Saturday.