Matt Todd will start a Test for the first time on Sunday morning when the All Blacks take on the Springboks in Durban.
Todd, capped four times off the bench, is awaiting kick-off with anticipation and is pumped for the occasion.
"It doesn't come any bigger than playing the Springboks in South Africa, so to get the opportunity is very exciting."
The Canterbury and Crusaders openside flanker has been on the outside looking in as far as the international game goes, having Richie McCaw, Sam Cane and Ardie Savea in the way since making his professional debut in 2009.
That hasn't fazed Todd however, and he is delighted hard work has finally paid off.
"It's a hard team to make. I guess you work away and hope you get the chance and that's what I have tried to do."
And having his Crusaders teammate beside him in the back row has helped the transition from the bench to the run-on side.
"Having Reado (Kieran Read) there, he's a familiar face and I have played with him a lot.
"It makes it a little easier having familiar faces around."
The 28-year-old is weary that his turnover-driven style may come under scrutiny by the match officials, and with sharp-shooter Morne Steyn on the opposition, discipline is key.
"It can be a fine line. Early on you have to get a feel for the referee and how they interpret stuff, and just make good decisions - you may have to err on the side of caution early on.
"They have shown that they will take on any points on offer. If you give away silly penalties and they start to tick up points on the scoreboard, it will put you under pressure."
Kick-off on Sunday morning is 4:05am (NZT).
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