Kangaroos captain Cameron Smith admits the current crop of Test players carry the added burden of Australia's past dominance every time they take to the international stage.
Smith will lead a star-studded side onto the SCG for Friday night's historic Centenary Test against New Zealand.
And while the world champions enter the clash as clear favourites, the skipper says the countless history lessons in the lead-up to the match have only added to the pressure.
"I think it is our responsibility now to take the game into the next century," Smith said.
"I know we've been very successful in the first 100 years so that starts this Friday."
Asked if a fear of losing exists within the national side Smith conceded: "It is a bit like that I think."
"We have been very dominant in the international game and although I think the Kiwis and the Poms are getting a lot closer, we sort of don't want to be the first Kangaroos to start that sort of losing streak."
"So it's important for us this year to get a good win Friday night and then that carries on with the World Cup (in October-November)."
But while desperate to clinch victory on Friday night Smith admitted a closer result than the 58-0 drubbing the Kangaroos meted out to the Kiwis in October would be in the best interests of the code.
"It'd be good for the (international) game obviously (but) I don't think it would bother me too much if we had the same scoreline," Smith said.
"But I think for the game it'd be great to have a really close match."
Meanwhile, Smith echoed the sentiments of outspoken team-mate Willie Mason in calling for the Sydney public to support the historic contest.
Asked how the players would feel if the match does not attract a capacity crowd Smith conceded: "It'd be very disappointing given the occasion."
"I've heard a lot of people say 'it'll be good to stay home and watch the game' but I think it'd be even better to be at the ground."
"At least you could say you were at the game and you could say to your grandkids that you were there watching such a wonderful match."
"I think I'd have to ask a lot of people to get out there because really it's a once in a lifetime thing."