Springbok captain Siya Kolisi said the South African team that beat Wales 2-1 in the Castle Lager Incoming Series is ready for the challenge that the All Blacks will bring tomorrow, August 6.

The Boks face New Zealand at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday at 17:05.

The South African skipper played his first match for his country the day before his 22nd birthday at Mbombela Stadium on June 15, 2013.

The captain and backline coach, Mzwandile Stick, faced the media at Southern Sun Emnotweni this afternoon.

“We have been preparing here [in Hazyview and Mbombela] for two weeks. There was a lot we had to work on after the Wales series. We chipped away at all the goals we wanted to achieve,” said Kolisi.

“We are motivated. We have not beaten the All Blacks in South Africa in eight years. They are an amazing side and we want to test ourselves against them.”

“The All Black game against the Springboks is massive. We are not going into the match with the mindset of favourites. The team that executes their game plan the best will win. We will have to be at our best. Through this match we can measure ourselves,” said Stick.

The South African captain has the greatest respect for the All Black players.

“They are a world-class team. They have players who are game breakers. We need to be aware at all times on the field or they will spark up the game and score,” said Kolisi.

During his debut game, the Springboks were playing Scotland and Kolisi was named on the Bok bench.

Seven minutes into the match he achieved his childhood dream. Arno Botha was injured and the then less-bulky loose forward came on to the field to become Springbok number 851.

Kolisi played a blinder and was man of the match.

“It’s a game I will never forget. It was special for me. Since then it’s been a journey with lots of ups and downs, but I would not change it for anything. I am excited; it’s a special stadium for me. We just want to win at home against the All Blacks. It’s going to be tough,” said Kolisi.

The Boks had a practice and the captain’s run on the pitch at Mbombela Stadium.

“The stadium is one of the best we have in the country. The pitch is amazing. But you would probably have to ask the props about that. If you can scrum on it it’s perfect. I am looking forward to playing on it tomorrow,” the captain said.

Tomorrow, in front of 43 000 fans, Kolisi will continue the journey he began at Mbombela Stadium nine years ago.

Sixty-five test matches later the captain is determined to lead his country to victory over their biggest foes at the same stadium.