As the Newcastle Knights prepare for their clash against the New Zealand Warriors in Auckland, Knights star Bradman Best is embracing the atmosphere that the New Zealand fans bring.

With more than 40,000 Warriors fans set to pack out Eden Park, Best is anticipating the atmosphere will be similar to his experience during State of Origin at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

NRL Rd 10 – Tigers v Knights
TAMWORTH, AUSTRALIA - MAY 11: Bradman Best of the Knights sporting a cut eye smiles after victory during the round 10 NRL match between Wests Tigers and Newcastle Knights at Scully Park, on May 11, 2024, in Tamworth, Australia. (Photo by Mark Evans/Getty Images)

The NSW Origin star thrives in hostile environments and welcomes pressure, and he is looking forward to a passionate New Zealand crowd.

“I'm expecting an Origin atmosphere,” Best told NRL.com.

“It's going to be pretty hostile with 40,000 Wahs fans going mad for them, but I can't wait.”

Instead of feeling intimidated by the environment that is set to face the Newcastle side, Best sees the occasion to demonstrate the Knights' talent. Best believes it's an opportunity to create memorable moments in their finals campaign.

“I love that environment,” Best said.

“It's going to be a great opportunity for us lads to go over there and do something special.”

The Knights faced off against the Warriors in their Round 26 clash. Although the Newcastle side lost 46-32 to the New Zealand side, the Knights showed significant promise against one of the best teams this season.

Knights player Jacob Saifiti was sent off in the 12th minute that derailed Newcastle's chances against the Warriors. With 13 players on the field, Newcastle may just spoil the party for the Warriors.

Almost 26,000 fans showed up to support the Warriors at Go Media Stadium in Auckland, and with close to double the fans, the atmosphere ramps up for the Newcastle team.

Best has demonstrated his strengths in high-pressure environments with his Origin experience, scoring a try in New South Wales' 2024 campaign, beating the Queensland Maroons at Suncorp Stadium in game three.

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2023 State of Origin - NSW v QLD: Game 3
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JULY 12: Bradman Best of the Blues celebrates with team mates after scoring a try during game three of the State of Origin series between New South Wales Blues and Queensland Maroons at Accor Stadium on July 12, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

He is entering the clash with confidence and experience after he had a strong performance in their win against South Sydney.

As the Knights are one win away from a preliminary final against the Penrith Panthers, Best understands the stakes could not be higher.

“I enjoy the challenge,” he said.

“I want to be the best and to do that you've got to go up against the best.”

Best is also encouraged by the teammates around him at the Newcastle Knights, representing the Newcastle community and bringing success for the club.

Elbow injury sidelines Knights star Bradman Best for lengthy period
NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 12: Bradman Best of the Knights celebrates his try with Hymel Hunt during the round one NRL match between the Newcastle Knights and the Canterbury Bulldogs at McDonald Jones Stadium, on March 12, 2021, in Newcastle, Australia. (Photo by Ashley Feder/Getty Images)

“When you do that you either thrive or you don't,” Best said.

“You fall short or you come away with the win. I'm enjoying the challenge and want to put my best foot forward. I don't want to let my brothers down or let the town of Newcastle down.”

With the significant challenge ahead of the Newcastle Knights, Best is ready and prepared to hear the wrath of the New Zealand fans.