GARDEN OF EDEN

CHESLIN Kolbe says the Springboks’ record at Eden Park against New Zealand smokkel nie met hul koppe nie ahead of Saturday’s 9.05am Rugby Championship Test in Auckland.

The laaste keer the Bokke beat the All Blacks at Eden Park was in 1937 while the Kiwis have also not lost a Test at the ground since 1994.

But of not kyking vas teen history as the Boks prepare to try and beat the All Blacks vyf keer in ‘n ry, Kolbe said: “The past is history. There’s nothing we can do about that. All we can do is focus on what we can do now, and whoever gets the chance to play needs to go out there and enjoy the occasion.

“A lot can change in a season, and the main things for us is to continue improving and developing as a team.”

For Kolbe it will be the first time he plays in a Test match at Eden Park, although the wing has played Super Rugby for the Stormers against the Blues there in the past.

But of grabbing the opportunity to make new history on Saturday, he said: “Every opportunity I receive to play against the All Blacks, especially with all the history behind matches between the sides, is massive, and that is a sentiment we all share.

“We are facing the No.1-ranked team in the world, and as a player, you want to measure yourself against them to see where you are and if you are still on par, so I’m excited.

“I have also never played at Eden Park before, but I’ve heard many great things about it, so I’ll be thrilled if I get the opportunity to play this weekend.”