Paul de Villiers Shines Off Springboks Bench
Stormers flanker came off the bench as the Springboks thumped Italy 66-7 in Turin.
Updated on Nov. 8, 2026 in Other Sports
Paul de Villiers played off the bench in the Springboks' 66-7 win over Italy in Turin on Saturday. The 23-year-old flanker has been touted as a potential inside centre hybrid.
Why it matters
De Villiers' versatility could give the national side an extra option in midfield if selectors adopt the hybrid approach. The development reflects a broader search for flexible players in the Springboks squad.
The Springboks beat Italy 66-7 in Turin, and De Villiers, 23, captained the Stormers in two United Rugby Championship matches and captained SA U20.
The players
Paul de Villiers
A 23-year-old flanker who captained the Stormers and SA U20 and has been considered as a hybrid inside centre.
Rassie Erasmus
Springboks head coach who has considered De Villiers as a hybrid inside centre option.
John Dobson
Stormers head coach who has touted De Villiers as a potential inside centre.
The details
De Villiers came off the bench in Turin and stood in for Ruhan Nel as Stormers captain. Stormers coach John Dobson and Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus have both considered him as an inside centre.
Timeline
Saturday: Springboks beat Italy 66-7 in Turin.
Other Sports
De Villiers' possible switch to inside centre extends the versatile selection pattern Rassie Erasmus has used in building the Springboks squad.
De Villiers' possible inside centre role could affect how Springbok selectors balance their midfield options in upcoming tests. Fantasy and squad watchers may want to track his minutes in both loose forward and centre positions.
The takeaway
Versatility is increasingly valuable in test rugby, and De Villiers' hybrid potential is worth watching as selections evolve.
Further reading
Explore more in Other Sports for context on the Springboks' squad planning.
