Paul de Villiers: Last-minute Springbok call-up made my debut easier
Paul de Villiers admits being called into the Springbok matchday 23 just hours before kick-off may actually have made his Test debut easier.
The loose forward was drafted into the side following Siya Kolisi’s late withdrawal before South Africa’s 45-21 victory over England at Ellis Park, but says the Springboks’ preparation ensured he was ready when the call came.
“They do prepare us for this because it does happen, so I was ready for it,” De Villiers said.
“Maybe not as much as being in the match 23 all week, but I had enough time to get my head around it and settle down.”
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He admits the late call-up left little time for nerves to build.
“I think almost not having the full week to stress about it made it a bit better,” he admitted.
“They (Kolisi’s) are massive shoes to fill. The team helped me a lot and they looked after me and then each other. They helped me settle in and make it a bit easier. They had my back at every turn.
“Siya helped me a lot. He made me feel a bit calmer, but like I said, the whole squad backs you and makes you comfortable. It was awesome.”
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According to De Villiers, the step up from the United Rugby Championship to Test match level is quite high, but says the game against the Barbarians gave him a glimpse of what to expect.
“It’s obviously fast, but you expect it, so that made it a bit easier. And the way we train in the week is almost at the same standard [as an international match],” he explained.
“So, it was fast, the breakdown speed and the decision-making have to be quick. I got pinned (in the ruck) the one time. So, there are things I can work on and do better.”
Despite staying focused on the job, the magnitude of fulfilling a lifelong ambition hit home as the team arrived at Ellis Park.
“I tried to keep the balance between taking the moment in and also staying focused.
“But it was what I dreamt of and more. The closer we came to Ellis Park and saw the people and what it means to them… I’m getting goosebumps now just thinking about it. It made it so special.”
The occasion became even more memorable with his family watching from the stands.
“My family was here, and I’m glad they could make it.
“It was awesome. A nice surprise for them, I’m sure.”
