Calvin Nash ready for 'massive' Loftus Versfeld challenge

Calvin Nash is hoping to count on his success with Munster in South Africa, ahead of Saturday's first Test with the Springboks in Pretoria.

In April, the Ireland international was part of a Munster side that inflicted a rare defeat on the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld, the venue for this Saturday's first Test.

South Africa have lost just one of their last 13 games at the venue, while New Zealand are the only country to have beaten them at the Pretoria ground in the last 30 years.

And Nash says he's expecting Saturday's occasion will be a significant step up from his recent visit with Munster earlier this season.

"Massive challenge to come down here," the wing said.

"It's hard enough to win a game [at Loftus Versfeld] in the URC – so I can only imagine what’s it’s going to be like in an international Test. The coaches told us about the challenge.

"Paulie [forwards coach Paul O'Connell] was saying to us that only one Irish team has won here internationally, so that’s another massive challenge and one we have to get over ourselves, and hopefully come up with positive results."

The 26-year-old has settled well into international rugby in recent months.

Having made his debut in the World Cup warm-ups last August, he started every game for Ireland in the Six Nations and looks set to be included in the starting side later today when head coach Andy Farrell confirms his matchday squad at 2pm.

"The Six Nations helped me a lot because it gave me more calmness coming into the international stage. Chance to get to know the lads was the main thing so I could know what they're doing on the pitch. At the same time, the off-the-field relationships are massive.

"I suppose it's the same as any other camp. I just tried to throw myself in and get the