De Villiers steps up amid Springbok setback

While seeing Deon Fourie leave the field is far from an ideal situation for the Stormers, the franchise might have found a suitable replacement in the shape of Paul de Villiers.

The Stormers have made a dream start to their United Rugby Championship campaign, recording three wins from three matches.

The Cape side kept Leinster (Round 1) and the Scarlets (Round 3) scoreless, while conceding just 10 points against the Ospreys in Round 2.

One man who has been central to that success is De Villiers, who has thrived in the absence of Springbok veteran Fourie.

Our openside Paul de Villiers has been on 🔥 #inittogether pic.twitter.com/xzCr5iW7W7

— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) October 14, 2025

The 22-year-old has enjoyed an extended run in the starting XV, filling in admirably while Fourie recovers from a long-term injury.

Fourie finally returned to action last weekend, but his comeback was short-lived – a serious bicep injury suffered against the Scarlets is set to keep him out for an extended period.

Like Fourie, De Villiers has been immense at the breakdown and has earned high praise for his physicality and relentless work rate, helping the Stormers establish themselves as one of the best defensive units in the competition.

“For any player, it’s nice to be back. And that means, obviously, getting more game time, and I think that’s the only way you can get better,” De Villiers told reporters.

“There’s a responsibility on the player to keep performing. Obviously, you understand that there are different and rotational plans – that’s part of it.

“But to be back and on the field, it’s so nice.

“It actually feels like you can improve, contribute, and get better.”

The young flanker is eager to continue his strong early-season form.

“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.”

Despite crossing the whitewash this season, De Villiers admits there’s one aspect of his game that gives him even greater satisfaction.

“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] – I enjoy the turnovers more.”

The rising star admitted that Fourie has been a perfect mentor and an inspiration.

“He’s a massive role model, and I ask his advice quite regularly. 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.”