Phil Vickery believes the British and Irish Lions are capable of beating South Africa.
Tighthead prop targets first Test win
Phil Vickery believes the British and Irish Lions are capable of beating South Africa.
The England World Cup winner admits he cannot wait to take on the world champions in Durban on Saturday.
Still unbeaten, the Lions will be looking to replicate their success in 1997 following disappointments in the last two Test series.
And, although admitting to feeling slightly nervous, Vickery insists his side are more than capable of repeating that feat and of overhauling the hosts in the first Test.
"In my opinion, there are two true Test matches - one is France, and the other is South Africa," said the Lions' tighthead prop.
"Tomorrow will be incredible, far beyond probably anything I've experienced for a while. If you switch off for 10 minutes of a Test match against these guys, it could be all over.
"It's going to be a huge step, but I firmly believe the guys we have are more than capable of stepping up and performing.
"I am probably more nervous now than I've ever been in my whole rugby career."
Proud
He added: "For me, being involved in the Lions is the biggest thing as a rugby player you can ever do.
"I'm a proud Englishman, and standing on the pitch singing the national anthem is a huge thing for me.
"But, at the same time, being part of the British and Irish Lions is the greatest honour you can have.
"If the changing room is not emotional tomorrow, then I will certainly make sure it is by the time we get out, that's for sure."
