Nerves and excitement for Sopoaga

Editor

All Black fly-half Lima Sopoaga is "looking forward to the challenge" ahead of making his international debut against the Springboks this weekend.

Sopoaga, who was named in the starting line-up alongside Highlanders team-mate Aaron Smith, joins lock James Broadhurst in running out for his bow.

And while the recent Super Rugby winner admits to being nervous at the prospect of playing in the cauldron that is Ellis Park, he can't wait to debut.

"Being able to stand in this room, obviously I have done something good at Super Rugby level," he told ONE News following the team announcement.

"I'm just so excited but obviously a little bit nervous coming into this environment. It's different and a massive step up but I have loved every moment of it so far.

"Now I'm looking forward to this weekend.

"All I've done this week is prepared as best as I can, tried to nail everything in terms of my role. At the weekend I've got to go out, direct, execute and enjoy myself. I'm looking forward to the challenge and heading out there in front of 61,000 South Africans and I'll see how I go."