Lock Eben Etzebeth will extend his record to 146 tests this Saturday as the Springboks look to secure an outright series victory over the All Blacks at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.
The physical, high-stakes four-match series currently sits at 2–1 in South Africa's favour after the Boks bounced back from an opening loss to secure back-to-back victories in Cape Town and Soweto.
For Etzebeth, the chance to settle rugby's greatest rivalry in the United States is a monumental occasion. Despite having faced New Zealand numerous times throughout his illustrious career, the veteran lock believes this unique four-week block represents the absolute pinnacle of international rugby.
"Every Test match, when you put the green and gold jersey on, it’s special," Etzebeth said. "Every time we play the All Blacks, we know the rivalry and what it means to them as well as to us.
"This one is very special. It’s obviously the decider, whether we actually win the series or it ends up in a draw. It’s a massive Test match for us, and we’re really excited for this weekend."
Reflecting on the relentless nature of playing the old foe four weeks in succession, he added:
"I think it’s an amazing time we’re living in, to be able to play a Test match series against New Zealand, four in a row. I think it’s the ultimate test for a rugby player to play against them and to do it four weekends in a row … It’s been tough, it’s been some bruising battles, but I think that’s what we all want to do and we love every second of it."
Etzebeth's inclusion in the starting lineup alongside Ruan Nortjé is a major boost for head coach Rassie Erasmus, especially after the towering lock endured a frustrating, stop-start period with injuries earlier in the season.
Having to pull out of the squad during the week of the England Test was a tough pill to swallow, making his return to full fitness just in time for the Argentina and New Zealand block even more meaningful.
"It was a bit frustrating, obviously not getting a lot of rugby under my belt," Etzebeth admitted. "It was just nice to be back. It was nice to play the first Test against Argentina again, and then a full 80.
"Obviously, the last couple of games against New Zealand as well, but ja, just glad to be back on the park again and playing some rugby. It was tough to watch the guys from the side, obviously in the mix for that England game, and then I had to withdraw in the week. But ja, great to be back."