Junior Bok star Yaqeen Ahmed set to be unleashed against All Blacks

The 20-year-old is being widely tipped to start at 10 for the Stormers in the opening match of the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour, and is expected to form an exciting halfback combination with 22-year-old scrumhalf Imad Khan.

The young flyhalf has enjoyed a meteoric rise in recent months, establishing himself as one of the standout performers for the Junior Springboks during their successful U20 World Championship campaign in Georgia last month.

Ahmed played a starring role as the Junior Boks successfully defended their title, impressing with his powerful running, sharp vision and willingness to take the ball to the opposition.

His tactical kicking and composure under pressure also stood out during the tournament.

Before joining the Junior Springboks for their World Championship campaign, the 20-year-old was included in a Springbok alignment camp and started at flyhalf for South Africa 'A' against Zimbabwe, scoring the opening try and kicking three conversions in their 40-0 win.

Facing the All Blacks in his Stormers debut will represent a considerable challenge, but it could prove equally tricky for New Zealand as they begin their tour against an exciting and unpredictable Stormers side.

Speaking ahead of Friday night's match, New Zealand assistant coach Jason Ryan says the All Blacks are eager to play "some footy" against the URC sides.

"I think it's really important we start with a bit of confidence, and we get into our game," he said.

"We want to play some footy, and [coach Dave Rennie] has been pretty clear that we really want to give everyone a crack in these first few games.

"We're starting well, getting to know the Stormers, who we've done some good preparation on, and we're preparing accordingly for each game," he added.