Crotty: Nothing bigger than Boks in NZ
The world champions take on the South Africans in Albany on Saturday in Round Four of this year's Rugby Championship and Crotty is bracing for a challenge that the All Blacks have not yet faced this year.
"We expect a massive challenge, and a huge, physical Test match," said Crotty.
"The history and the rivalry of the two nations builds it up a bit more.
"It doesn't get any bigger than a Test against South Africa at home, and it's a challenge I'm sure will excite the lads."
The Springboks defeated Argentina at home and away before drawing 23-23 with the Wallabies in Western Australia last weekend.
They will be hard pressed to halt the rampant world champions at North Habour Stadium, where lock Brodie Retallick nevertheless expects a typically tough contest.
"We all know the way the South Africans play," Retallick told a news conference.
"We've seen the last couple of weeks how physical they've been, especially up front. As always, they’re big boys and they like to come at you.
"Every Test is special, but from what we’ve seen so far in the Rugby Championship, they've had two great wins over Argentina and they'll be a little bit frustrated with the draw against Australia in Perth.
"They'll be coming here with a bit of anger, and with the skill and physicality they’re playing with, I’m sure it’s going to be a good spectacle."
Source: @RugbyPass
