Some 'spice' possible between Proteas and ex-Saffas, but Elgar preaches perspective

Things might become spicy in the heat of the moment, but skipper Dean Elgar foresees the banter between the Proteas and New Zealand's group of former Africans remaining measured.

Devon Conway, the elegant former Lions and Dolphins left-hander who's made a storming start to his international career, will become the latest South African expat to turn out against his former countrymen in the first Test that starts in Christchurch on Thursday.

He's joined by former Northerns quick Neil Wagner and a Zimbabwean in all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme.

"Maybe," Elgar said with a chuckle when probed on Wednesday whether there will be some fireworks in the middle.

"You never know hey?"

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However, the combative opener pertinently reminded all that modern players have become far less intolerant of counterparts switching allegiances and that no bad blood exists among this group of players.

"Look, we respect the background of a lot of players the Kiwis have," said Elgar.

"Sure, they have two South Africans and a Zimbabwean in their squad, but the way I've heard [is] that they're New Zealanders now and have earned their residency qualifications.

"They're not South African players now anymore, otherwise they would've had different badges on their chest. Come business time, I've mentioned previously that once we cross the boundary to get onto the field, we're going to be all about business.

"There will be opportunities for us to catch up with the Kiwi guys because I'm mindful that some of us know them from back home and that's perfectly fine. We just need to be mindful of what we need to focus us when we're playing."

Maintaining the right perspective will also extend to the