Springbok inside centre Damian de Allende has described the historic four-match series against the All Blacks as the "ultimate test," while singling out New Zealand’s Jordie Barrett as the most formidable midfield opponent of his career.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s series-deciding fourth Test in Baltimore, the double World Cup winner reflected on a gruelling month of rugby and the unique challenge of facing the old enemy four weeks in a row.
With South Africa currently leading the series 2-1, De Allende is ready for a brutal showdown.
"To play four Test matches in a row against the All Blacks is the ultimate test for any rugby player," De Allende said. "It has been incredibly physical, but the squad has loved every second of the battle. These are the games you live to play in."
After locking horns with some of the greatest players in rugby history, the 34-year-old midfielder was asked to name the player who has tested him most. Without hesitation, he pointed to the current All Black number 12.
"Jordie Barrett is probably the toughest centre opponent I’ve faced in my career," De Allende admitted. "His skill set is incredible. He can kick, he can pass, and he brings an immense physical presence to the channel. It has been a true pleasure and a massive learning experience to test myself against him over successive weekends."
De Allende also paid tribute to the legendary figures he has encountered since making his international debut in 2014.
"I’ve been incredibly fortunate in my career longevity," he reflected. "I got to compete against midfield icons like Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith, and Sonny Bill Williams early on, and I was lucky enough to learn alongside elite domestic peers like Frans Steyn. It keeps you sharp."
New Zealand is expected to throw everything at the Springbok defensive line on Saturday to level the series. However, De Allende insisted that he is not losing sleep over individual matchups or tactical surprises.
"I don't mind who is lined up against me, to be honest," De Allende said. "Our defensive philosophy is simple: you just defend what is right in front of you. We trust the system, and we prepare exactly the way the coaching staff wants us to."
Head coach Rassie Erasmus has opted for continuity in the midfield, naming De Allende to start at inside centre alongside his long-time partner Jesse Kriel.
The Springboks will look to clinch a historic 3-1 series victory when they take the field this weekend in the United States.