Stormers openside flank Paul de Villiers says he learned as a primary school pupil from watching one of the best in the business.
The 23-year-old, who is set to make his first appearance in the green and gold in Saturday’s non-cap match against the Barbarians in Gqeberha, revealed on Monday that former Springbok fetcher Heinrich Brüssow had a big influence on his development.
“It is hard to single out guys, but yes, I watched a lot of Brüssow’s rugby, and I definitely learned from how he tackled the breakdown,” De Villiers said.
Brüssow became a household name during the Boks’ 2009 series win against the British & Irish Lions and victorious Tri-Nations campaign, terrorising opposition ball-carriers and earning a reputation as one of the game’s premier turnover specialists.
De Villiers finished the recent Vodacom URC season with 19 turnovers won – one fewer than competition leader Jeandré Rudolph.
“As I played more rugby through my school years, I formed into a fetcher role, but I hope that is not the only thing I contribute,” he said.
DE VILLIERS: Bok training is next level
De Villiers’ rugby education has continued in the Springbok environment.
“I learned a lot from watching top players at the breakdown. I am still learning, and right now from guys like Siya [Kolisi], Siba [Mahashe] and Emmanuel [Tshituka].
“I have stuff I bring to the table, but Siya adds things I can learn, so it is good to listen, watch, and learn.”
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Asked whether winning a turnover brings the same thrill as scoring a try, De Villiers smiled.
“I suppose it is the same thrill. It is part of my job to make turnovers, and when you get off the field and have contributed in that area, it feels good.”
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Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images
The post De Villiers inspired by Bok breakdown bandit appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Stormers openside flank Paul de Villiers says he learned as a primary school pupil from watching one of the best in the business.
The post De Villiers inspired by Bok breakdown bandit appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
