Cheslin Kolbe is back in the only change to the side that beat in the semi-final Wales last weekend, while Erasmus stuck to the match-23 that got the Boks into the playoffs, again opting for a 6-2 split on the bench.

“Chessie is fully fit and ready to go,” said Erasmus.

“It’s tough on Sbu to drop out of the 23 altogether but, like the other seven, non-playing squad members – and the two injured players back home [Trevor Nyakane and Jesse Kriel] – he has made vital contributions to our campaign.

“But we have been developing some momentum through the tournament, which has come from consistency, and although we know there are things we can do better this is a fit, well-practiced set of combinations who know what they have to do on Saturday.”

The Boks have built momentum in 2019 and lost only once in 11 tests, claiming the Castle Lager Rugby Championship in the process and qualifying for the RWC final for the first time since 2007.

“Getting to this stage is not enough for this team,” said Erasmus.

“We now have what may be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to become World Champions – something that would mean so much to our country and our people.

“We know the excitement that there is back home and that the country may well be coming to a standstill on Saturday lunchtime in South Africa. There’s a huge weight of expectation.

“We may not be favourites but these players will leave nothing in the tank. We know how the wins in 1995 and 2007 lifted the country – even if it was momentarily. We want to give South Africa that experience once again.”

Bok captain Siya Kolisi will play in his 50th Test for South Africa, an achievement lauded by Erasmus.

"It’s a great achievement for Siya,” said Erasmus.

“Any Springbok captain carries a heavy load – probably doubly so in Siya’s case – and he has really risen to the occasion over the past two years.

“No one is hiding from the significance that would be attached to him lifting the trophy on behalf of this team and South Africa. But first and foremost on Saturday this is a rugby match that we’re only focused on winning.”