Chris Pennell admits he can’t wait to soak up the atmosphere at Eden Park when England take on New Zealand in the first Test on Saturday.
Pennell has been named amongst the replacements for Saturday’s game and will make his international debut if he comes on.
The Worcester Warriors vice-captain said: “I’m desperate to get out there at Eden Park, soak up the atmosphere and be a part of what promises to be a superb game at the top level of rugby.
“Hopefully I’ll get an opportunity to show what I can do. I don’t think I’ll face many tougher tests and I’m really looking forward to it.
“I’ve been making sure I get everything in place so I can perform as well as I possibly can should I come on.”
England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster named his side on Wednesday evening at 11.15pm (BST) and Pennell admits he was delighted when he discovered he was in the matchday squad.
He continued: “I had a fairly big smile on my face when the team was announced and I’m hugely appreciative to Stuart for giving me the opportunity.
“But I quickly came back down to earth and realised there’s a game to be played. So I’m focused on the match and trying to take in as much information as I can.”
Warriors fans on the other side of the world to Pennell will be tuning in on Saturday to cheer on their hero when the match gets underway at 8.35am (BST).
And Pennell was quick to pay tribute to them for their support. He added: “I’ve been inundated with messages from fans wishing me luck ahead of the game and I thank all of them for their support.
“I know there will be a lot of people back home watching the game on Saturday and cheering me on. And that means everything to me.”