Wiese's timely charge shows the apprentice is still chasing master Vermeulen for Bok No 8 jersey

Up until Saturday, a substantial contingent of onlookers might've believed the wily Duane Vermeulen had usurped Jasper Wiese as the Springboks' first-choice No 8 ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

The 37-year-old Vermeulen's resurgence has been one of the dominant themes in the build-up to South Africa's squad announcement for the showpiece tournament on Tuesday, but his significantly younger counterpart ensured the battle for the jersey in France would remain engaging with an excellent showing in the 24-13 victory over Argentina in Buenos Aires.

Wiese made 41 metres from 13 carries, completed 6 tackles (which included a dominant hit) and won a turnover, proving his worth as a cleaner at a messy breakdown at times.

Did he pull up his socks because of the pressure being exerted on him by Vermeulen? 

Not a chance.

To Wiese and Vermeulen, their rivalry should only serve to make the Boks' title defence in France more viable.

"It's never about the individual, it's always about focusing on the collective," said Wiese.

"Duane's playing very good rugby at this stage. I'm really happy for him. We try to help each other as much as possible. It's unbelievable to see his [form] and how it influences both of us positively."

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Perhaps fittingly, the Boks' tremendous depth in the No 8 jersey was emphasised even further by Evan Roos' eye-catching cameo from the bench, the Stormers star emulating Wiese in carrying strongly and proving menacing on defence.

He was denied a first Test try at the death through a TMO decision that revealed obstruction in the build-up to the score.

While Roos is expected to be one of the unlucky candidates to miss the World Cup