Having battled past South Africa by a score of 20-18 in their semi-final clash, New Zealand are only one match away from becoming the first nation to successfully defend the title, having triumphed in front of their home fans at the 2011 edition of the tournament.

Arch-rivals Australia will be bidding to prevent the All Blacks from claiming back-to-back titles after they booked their place in the showpiece occasion, courtesy of their 29-15 victory over Argentina in their last four encounter.

Prince Harry, who spoke at the Opening Ceremony of the tournament on September 18, will officially bring proceedings to a close by handing the trophy to the victorious captain in the final, with the winners set to become the first nation to triumph at the quadrennial event three times.

World Rugby have confirmed that the first meeting between the two southern hemisphere countries in a Rugby World Cup final will be presided over by the Welsh referee Nigel Owens.

Owens, who is set to become the second Welshman after Derek Bevan to referee the finale of the tournament, is widely regarded as the sport’s top official.

“This is a huge honour and a privilege for me, I am humbled to have been chosen to referee the Rugby World Cup final,” Owens said, following his appointment.

“I am humbled to have been chosen to referee the Rugby World Cup final, this is my third World Cup and I think it has been the best.

“The quality of rugby on display has been incredible in front of packed venues and so to be given the opportunity to referee the final match between the best two teams in the tournament is an amazing honour.”

Owens will be assiated by Jérôme Garcès of France and England’s Wayne Barnes, while South Africa’s Shaun Veldsman has been selected as the television match official.

England 2015 have urged fans to monitor tickets.rugbyworldcup.com for any official resale or additional tickets which could become available for either the final or bronze final, which is set to take place at the London 2012 Olympic Stadium, in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, on October 30.

Argentina and South Africa will be hoping to bounce back from their semi-final disappointments to win the minor final, which in addition to the Australia and New Zealand match will be broadcast at the 19 official fanzones.

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