Former Pakistan cricketer and long-time Dunedin coach Billy Ibadulla was given the honour of handing out the test caps to the Black Caps last night.
Ibadulla (76) has been a cricket professional for more than 50 years, and has coached in Dunedin for more than 30 years.
He said it was a huge privilege to give out the caps last night.
"I think of all the good things that have happened to me within the game over the years and this stands alongside them," Ibadulla said.
"It is great of New Zealand cricket to ask me and a huge, huge honour."
Ibadulla came to Dunedin in 1976 and still coaches promising cricketers.
He played four tests for Pakistan from 1964 until 1967 and also played county cricket in England for Warwickshire before moving to New Zealand.
Ibadulla has coached many of New Zealand's top cricketers over the years, including Glenn Turner, Ken Rutherford and Chris Cairns.
Although not involved with New Zealand test vice-captain Brendon McCullum in his early development, Ibadulla coached McCullum about five years ago as the former wicketkeeper worked on his form.
As for who will win the test match, which starts today, Ibadulla, a former television commentator, said New Zealand had a very good seam attack.
The home side had bowlers which could both swing and seam the ball which would be most useful in the Dunedin conditions, compared to the South African bowlers who relied more on pace and bounce.
