Jesse Kriel says the challenge ahead of South Africa against New Zealand "excites" him, and he is not feeling the pressure on Saturday's game at Eden Park.

The Rugby Championship is finely poised after the first two matches, with all four teams boasting one win and one loss so far.

Reigning champions currently sit third in the table, though, on four points, having failed to pick up any bonuses in their win over Australia.

The Springboks, who suffered a shock 38-22 defeat to the Wallabies in their opener, bounced back, but they now face their toughest test yet, as South Africa have not beaten New Zealand at Eden Park since 1937.

The All Blacks have recorded seven consecutive wins at the venue since, including the most recent meeting – a 29-15 victory in the Rugby Championship in 2013.

However, Kriel, who is acting as the stand-in captain on Saturday, is confident that South Africa can end their torrid run.

"The magnitude of the game is something that excites me," Kriel said on Friday.

"I think, as a competitor, and most guys will say the same thing, you want to be involved in the biggest of Test matches, and this is right up there.

"You want to test yourself against the best, whether it's in your position, or whether it's [against a team higher] in the world rankings.

"It doesn't get any bigger and any more exciting than this for a player."

Your #Springboks team for tomorrow’s big one at Eden Park against the All Blacks 

Don’t miss a moment. Watch it all live on @SuperSportTV!#ForeverGreenForeverGold pic.twitter.com/wQOTQ5FQr3

— Springboks (@Springboks) September 5, 2025

For New Zealand, it will be a milestone Test for Ardie Savea, who will make his 100th appearance for the All Blacks.

Savea, who has scored the most Test tries of any All Blacks forward in history (30), boasts a 73% win ratio from his first 99 appearances and will be keen to mark Saturday with a victory.

"Ardie embodies everything that makes an All Black," head coach Scott Robertson said.

"He brings an extraordinary level of passion, leadership, and mana every time he pulls on the jersey. We will honour his milestone with a performance that reflects not just his quality on the field, but the example he sets every day.  

"Ardie is one of three centurions in the match day 23 to play South Africa, while Kyle Preston is joined by three other players who have debuted for the All Blacks this year.

"As with all of our debutants, we know that Kyle will rise to the challenge in the black jersey. He is a skilful player who has proven his ability to drive a game and make smart decisions in pressure moments."

This will be the 109th match between New Zealand and South Africa, with the All Blacks winning 62 of those (D4 L42).