White overwhelmed by World Cup win

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The Springboks claimed the Webb Ellis Trophy for the second time thanks to four Percy Montgomery penalties, a three-pointer from Francois Steyn and an amazing defensive effort in the 15-6 triumph at the Stade de France.

White's side repeated the exploits of the country's class of 1995, and White said: "It's an unbelievable experience. It hasn't sunk in yet. To see the president of our country (Thabo Mbeki) sitting on the players' shoulders holding the World Cup, it doesn't get much better than that."

He added: "It's a massive thing for our country, it doesn't get bigger than that in the context of where we come from."

England had the better of territory and possession, but South Africa scored the points when it mattered. Steyn's 62nd-minute penalty gave the Springboks a nine-point cushion and they relied on their obdurate defence to see them home.

"I always said defences win World Cups," added White. "It's amazing how history repeats itself. There were no tries in 1995, two tries in the 2003 final and no tries here. It just shows important defence is. All credit to my Springboks.

"We were defending so well and we never really felt that they were asking questions of our line.

"When we were two scores ahead and we turned their line-out over, we knew they would have to chase it. We slowed the game down and we have learned that over the past four years."

White paid tribute to a valiant effort by England, who failed in their bid to keep hold of their crown.

"I think it would be wrong not to compliment England," he added. "People wrote them off. People talk about pride, passion and teamwork, and they have proved they will not go out without a fight."