New Zealand boss Steve Hansen has hailed the durability of “special player” Dan Carter as he prepares to line up in his first Rugby World Cup final.

World Rugby confirmed on Sunday night there were no citings from the Twickenham clash.

New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen has vigorously defended All Blacks captain Richie McCaw after video footage emerged of him apparently striking South Africa flanker Francois Louw during Saturday’s World Cup semi-final at Twickenham.

"We have all had a run in the first two games, so there are no excuses for not being ready to go."

All-action skipper Richie McCaw snatched victory for New Zealand late on against South Africa after a pulsating spectacle in Johannesburg.