The Springboks have an impressive track record against Scotland, with 22 victories in 29 matches, but Kolisi said history would have no significance when the teams battle it out in Edinburgh with the hosts high on confidence after defeating Australia last weekend and with a team that boasts a number of British & Irish Lions players.

“They are a good side and there are a lot of things they can throw at us,” said Kolisi, who made his Test debut against Scotland in Nelspruit in 2013, and has only faced them once more since that day, in 2018.

“They have a good running and kicking game, their scrum went well last week ,and so did their other set pieces, so we will be challenged all around. Their breakdowns are also good.

“Over and above that, they have an attacking flyhalf in Finn Russell, and a lot of experience with Stuart Hogg at the back, so it is going to a challenge all around.

“Our focus, however, has been on our game, and to make sure that our plan works.”

Kolisi added: “This is probably the strongest Scottish side I will face. I haven’t played many games against them, but one can see the quality of the side in the way they play and the fact that they have a few British & Irish Lions players.

“That said, we are looking forward to a hard battle for the full 80 minutes.”

Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick spoke equally highly of the hosts and said: “They are a good team all around.

“If you look at the balance in their side, they have very physical players, and if you give them time and space they will punish you.

“So, the key aspects for us will be to ensure that we execute our game plan well and to be physical. It’s going to be a tough one, but we’ll be up for the challenge.”

Stick emphasised the importance of capitalising on their chances, and he was excited to see what Elton Jantjies would bring to the game at flyhalf after he was named at pivot in a rotational switch with Handre Pollard, who has been named among the reserves.

“We won’t change our game plan because of one individual,” said Stick.

“We know what Elton offers, and he certainly brings an X-factor on attack. As coaches we give the players the freedom on the field to make decisions when they see opportunities, so I don’t think Elton will go out there and try to change things.

“He knows our game plan and he is always effective in how we like to play, so for us the important thing is to play our best rugby.

“I’m excited and happy to see him (Jantjies) get the opportunity as well.”

Kolisi refused to attach any significance to the team’s impressive win record in Scotland, where they have suffered only two defeats since 1992 - in 2010 and 2002.

“We have a great record in Scotland, but that can change," warned Kolisi.

“We saw last week how things can change because we haven’t won in Cardiff in a long time, and we did last week.

“It can give you confidence, but we still have to pitch up there tomorrow and do the job.

“History is there to be changed, so we won’t focus on that. We know what we need to do and we need to deliver on that tomorrow.”

The match kicks off at 13h00 (15h00 SA time) and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.