New All Blacks Saula Ma'u fought back tears in a post-match interview while talking about his debut in the black jersey, describing it as a "dream come true".
The Highlanders and Otago prop took the field in the 60th minute of the 41-35 win over the Lions in Johannesburg, called up as an injury replacement for Ollie Norris.
Ma'u said it was "unreal" to make his debut for the side.
"This was always a goal of mine to one day to play for the All Blacks," he told media after today’s win at Ellis Park.
"Coming into camp last week just feels crazy to be in that environment. The boys making me feel welcome, the coaches just getting me up to speed and it’s a dream come true and obviously I want more of it ... we’ll see what happens."
The 26-year-old said he hoped he had made his family proud.
"Thank you to the heavenly Father for, you know, the blessings that he gave me to wear the black jersey and obviously my friends and family back home, my partner, Nia, mum and dad. Just grateful for the coaching staff, for the All Blacks giving me a chance to represent my family, my friends and my village back home. Hopefully, I made them proud.
"It is a dream come true," he added.
Ma'u said he would be holding onto his first All Blacks jersey.
“Probably going to sleep with it tonight,” he joked. “No, going to keep it in a safe place”.
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