New Zealand have confirmed three players are returning home after Saturday's 24-29 loss to the Springboks at FNB Stadium, with the injuries dealing a significant blow to their preparations for next weekend's series decider in Baltimore.

Captain Ardie Savea dislocated his shoulder in the first half — despite leaving the field having already scored two tries. Centre Quinn Tupaea has an MCL injury, while loose forward Luke Jacobson has suffered a tendon injury to his elbow. Return-to-play timeframes have not been set for any of the three.

The Springboks lead the four-Test series 2-1.