All Blacks: Young bull relishes clash with Matfield

Isaac Ross will find himself up against Victor Matfield, possibly the best lineout forward in the world, in tomorrow's test at Bloemfontein. Photo / Getty Images

The least experienced member of the All Blacks' starting XV is also one of the most talked about heading into the test against South Africa.

Isaac Ross enters the real rugby big time when his lanky frame strides on to Vodacom Park.

Questions over the 24-year-old lock's physicality are sure to be answered against the belligerent Springbok pack, while his battle with lineout kingpin Victor Matfield - in both the leaping and calling stakes - will be hugely influential.

Ross, whose athletic skills shone against Italy last month, was well aware of the need to muscle up against the world's premier teams.

"Obviously that's a trait of the Springboks, they like to be physical and try to bully you," he said. "But we just have to keep moving forward and bar up."

He accepted there were some issues with his lineout calling in last weekend's win over Australia but believed the experience would be beneficial.

Hooker Andrew Hore said Ross had brought his own style to the lineout since taking over the key middle jumper berth from an injured Ali Williams.

"He did a good job with the Crusaders," said Hore. "He's stepped in and had pretty big shoes to fill right from his debut. He's been calling lineouts both on 'D' and attack.

"He's doing a pretty good job, but the more we can help out, the better the lineout will go as well."

Assistant coach Steve Hansen said the Springboks would provide a more formidable lineout than the Wallabies.

"It's probably tougher. You have got Matfield there who is probably one of the best lineout forwards in the game and they base a lot of their game around that.

"That and their driving, so it is an area where we are going to have to try and put some pressure on them."

Hansen was uncomfortable with all the focus on Ross, but confident the Cantabrian could respond.

"I am sure he is looking forward to marking Victor because he is seen as one of the best lineout forwards, if not the best lineout forward in the game. So that's one of the things great players really relish, playing against the best.

"Isaac is at the beginning of his career and Victor is at the other end of the scale. I am not saying he is winding down, but he has been around a long time and it is the old bull and the young bull, I suppose."

- NZPA