Jasper Wiese says the Springboks will have to focus on getting bonus points in their final two fixtures against Argentina, as the Rugby Championship title race remains tightly contested. DYLAN JACK reports.

The Springboks are currently in second place on the Rugby Championship log, tied on nine points with Argentina and Australia, while the table-topping All Blacks are just one point ahead.

This means that securing a winning bonus point, by scoring three tries more than their opponents, will be vital for the Springboks when they play Argentina in the remaining fixtures in Buenos Aires and Durban.

“Every team is playing for a bonus point at this stage,” Wiese told media from Argentina. “You want to keep in mind that we have a shot to win it. Every team has to have the same mindset, not just us. Every team is on nine or 10 points, so it’s important for every team to try and get a bonus point.

“I think we are simply going to keep playing to our best. We just want to make ourselves and the country proud.”

Wiese is enjoying a fine year in the green and gold, impressive in a back row where starting positions have been heavily contested, especially since Duane Vermeulen’s return from injury.

The 26-year-old said he is soaking up as much knowledge as he can from the World Cup-winning veteran.

“To have such an experienced player playing alongside you, it’s amazing. To learn from Duane is a real privilege,” said Wiese.

“As for the competition, it’s always tight. I don’t think anybody’s spot is guaranteed. It’s been a massive privilege for me to play alongside everybody here, especially Duane. He has years of experience and there is so much I can still learn from him.”

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