Kolisi, who will lead the team for the 108th time in Test rugby, says the Springboks are excited to be back together and are determined to make a strong start to the new competition.

Despite spending several weeks apart following their last Test against Australia in September, the captain believes there is no shortage of motivation or team spirit in the squad.

Siya Kolisi, Ox Nché, Malcolm Marx, and Wilco Louw - SA Rugby

In fact, he revealed that the players were already missing one another just two weeks after going their separate ways.

“When we went away after the Australia Test, two weeks in, the guys started messaging each other because we missed each other,” said Kolisi.

“So, it’s never hard for us to get up for a game. We’re excited and hopeful that we can start this tour strongly.

“This is a new competition, which is also something to be excited about. We’ve trained well, we are prepared, and we can’t wait for the game.”

With the Springboks level on 15 points with New Zealand in the southern hemisphere standings, much has been made of the possibility of securing a bonus-point victory to strengthen their position.

However, Kolisi was quick to dismiss any talk of looking too far ahead, insisting that winning must come first.

“We just want to win. The first thing is to get the win, and if we get the lead in the game, then we can go for the bonus point,” he explained.

“You can’t think about bonus points before you even have a win, so we’ll take the game as it comes, and we respect each team.

Damian Willemse - SA Rugby

“We’re playing Italy at home, and we know how tough it was for us to play against them here last year.

“There’s nothing we can do to control what New Zealand do in their games. All we have control over is what we do as a team.”

Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick echoed his captain’s sentiments, warning that there is no room for complacency against an Italian side that will be eager to make the most of home advantage.

Although Italy will be without key players Juan Ignacio Brex and Tommaso Menoncello, Stick believes they still have plenty of firepower, particularly in their backline.

Springbok team to face Italy - SA Rugby

He highlighted the threat posed by Ange Capuozzo, Monty Ioane and flyhalf Paolo Garbisi, adding that the Boks will need to be disciplined and execute their systems effectively.

The Springboks are also looking to build momentum ahead of challenging encounters against France and Ireland, with a place in the Nations Championship Finals Weekend up for grabs.

Stick stressed that a strong start in Turin would be crucial if the world champions are to achieve their ambitions.

Kick-off for Saturday’s Test at the Allianz Stadium is at 13:40.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport