Rassie Erasmus has warned the Springboks that the job is not done after their thrilling 29-24 victory over New Zealand at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

The win put South Africa 2-1 ahead in the Castle Double Malt Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series, but with one Test still to come in Baltimore, United States, Erasmus was quick to dismiss suggestions that the Springboks had already secured the series.

“I know a lot of people said that this is the series here in South Africa, but it is not – we’ve played three games here, and we’re one up, but the final game is still to come,” said Erasmus.

South Africa cannot lose the series outright, but a New Zealand victory in the fourth Test would level the series.

The trophy was designed to be shared if the series ends in a draw, meaning everything remains to play for when the teams meet at M&T Stadium next Saturday.

“It’s game on,” Erasmus said.

The Springboks were forced to fight back after trailing for much of Saturday’s match, with the hosts only taking control in the 58th minute before eventually establishing a two-score advantage with 10 minutes remaining.

Erasmus described the encounter as an “epic” and “intense” contest between the world’s top two sides.

“We are happy tonight. It was epic. It was intense. I think the scoreboard at the end showed how close the game was. We’re just happy we won,” he said.

The Springbok coach admitted New Zealand had been the better side in the first half, particularly with ball in hand.

“They were definitely on top in the first half. All of us I think envy the way they can handle the ball and they’re certainly brilliant at that,” he said.

South Africa’s ability to go into halftime level ultimately proved crucial.

“Luckily we went in level at halftime which gives you some hope,” said Erasmus.

Kolbe ruled out of final Test

The Springboks have travelled to the United States without Cheslin Kolbe after Erasmus confirmed that the winger fractured his jaw during the match.

Kolbe is among several players who have remained in South Africa, with props Carlu Sadie, Boan Venter and Ntuthuko Mchunu, as well as utility forwards Cobus Wiese and Ben-Jason Dixon, also not making the trip.

There is better news on the injury front for Damian Willemse, Grant Williams and Canan Moodie.

The three backs, who have battled injuries in recent weeks, have recovered sufficiently and have travelled with the squad to Baltimore.

Both teams shared a flight to the United States before regrouping for the final Test.

The fourth and final Test will be played at M&T Stadium in Baltimore on Saturday, 12 September, with kick-off at 23:00 South African time.