Springbok captain Pieter-Steph du Toit made it clear on Friday that Scotland will provide a stern test when the sides meet in their second Nations Championship encounter on Saturday at Loftus Versfeld.
The match marks a historic milestone for Rassie Erasmus, who will become the most-capped Springbok head coach of all time as he takes the helm for his 55th Test match. Du Toit noted that the squad is highly motivated to make the record-breaking occasion special for their coach.
Du Toit, who also led the Springboks during Erasmus’ very first Test as head coach back in 2018, reflected fondly on their long-standing relationship.
"I’ll always remember the excitement since the day I met Rassie," Du Toit said. "He always comes up with a plan and allows us to build on it, finding anything that could give us an edge. That's always been there, and it's awesome to be part of this occasion with him."
As the most experienced player in the matchday 23, the veteran loose forward is eagerly anticipating what his reshuffled team can deliver on the field.
"It doesn't put pressure on me; it actually excites me more," said Du Toit, who will be earning his 97th Test cap. "I remember being one of the younger guys myself, playing with that same excitement. When you play for the Springboks at Loftus, you've got so much energy, and you want to prove a point. A guy who wants to do that can be dangerous because he'll do anything for the team."
Honoured to lead the Boks again this week in the absence of regular captain Siya Kolisi, Du Toit credited his years in the system for preparing him for the responsibility.
"We've got a good system, and it guides us wherever we go," Du Toit concluded. "Personally, I've been here for a couple of years now, and I've learned from Siya and the other captains before me, so there's nothing extra expected of me. It’s just about doing what is required on the field and leading by example."