Preview: All Blacks v South Africa

Finally we have something to really sink our teeth into.

After a couple of games against France, and a single outing against Canada, we can at last get into a game where the action may overshadow the talk.

No more talk about half-strength teams, no more talk about rotation, no more talk at all.

The real deal is upon us, and it should be a classic.

Despite a number of injuries, the Springboks are full of confidence after an impressive Super14 showing, a good build up against England, and a tough, tight match with Australia.

They now know they will have to step up again, but the real question is whether the All Blacks can do likewise for the first time this season.

I don't really buy into the travel being such a big factor....it's a fact of life and has to be dealt with, but I also think it's another Graham Henry distraction point.

I expect our scrum to get stronger as the game goes on, based of course on the continuing growth of The Beard throughout the match. Basing our attacks around the scrum, I think the All Blacks will be too strong in the backs, and will take the match up 13+.