Stormers star Paul de Villiers looking to follow in Springbok's footsteps

The flanker captained the Junior Boks in 2023 and was snapped up by the Stormers for last year's United Rugby Championship. He featured primarily off the bench, but that may very well change this season.

2023 Rugby World Cup final hero Deon Fourie looks set for an extended period on the sideline following a bicep injury in the Stormers' comprehensive win over Scarlets on Saturday. But the Stormers may have found his understudy in de Villiers.

The 22-year-old has thrived in the traditional openside flanker role, pilfering the ball and showing a high work rate at ruck time. Speaking to the press ahead of Saturday's clash against Zebre in Italy, de Villiers revealed how Fourie will continue to serve as a role model for him despite his injury.

"He's a massive role model, and I ask his advice quite regularly," said the George native.

"Deon obviously plays a huge role on and off the field and will definitely be missed. I'll definitely keep asking for his advice - I always take it from him. He'll still be very involved despite the injury.

"For me, it's really about continuing to do what I've been doing, especially at the breakdown.

"I have to make sure our defence has a bit more time - slowing down the ball and turning over possession. It's an area that we pride ourselves on."

De Villiers has annoyed the opposition on attack as well, twice crossing the whitewash in the Stormers' three wins. But like a true fetcher, he admits he enjoys the steals more.

"It's nice to score and add your name to the scoreboard, but I'm just the man with the ball in hand [at the back of the maul]," he added.

"I enjoy the turnovers more."