A rampant South Africa has claimed only its second-ever Tri-Nations title on the back of a second-half blitz which blew away the Wallabies.

The sell-out Kings Park crowd cheered themselves hoarse as the jubilant Springboks, 23-19 winners, carried the series trophy in a long and heart-stirring victory lap.

Regarded as a rabble last year where they finished as major World Cup disappointments, the Boks totally turned the tide under new coach Jake White.

"It's pretty special," said an elated White at the post-match media conference.

"You just have to see what's happening outside to see what it means to our people.

"It's an unbelievable feeling, one we won't forget."

To complete the turnaround, lock Victor Matfield, a controversial figure at the start of the series when he opposed South African officials over lack of contract money, was deservedly named man of the match.

Matfield was outstanding in the lineout and scored the Boks first try.

A first Tri-Nations title since 1998 was built on a 22-minute period where they conjured all their 23 points, including two tries in eight minutes just after the break.

For that time Australia, looking for its first series crown in three years, struggled to win the ball, let alone retain it.

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