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Paulie D can play nine like Kwagga

Paul de Villiers has the skills to cover in the backs for the Springboks, but will only be used there in an emergency in Italy on Saturday, according to Rassie Erasmus.

By Devin Hermanus · SA Rugby Magazine

Published: Monday, 2 November 2026 at 6:03 PM

Key Things to Know

Rassie Erasmus stated Paul de Villiers can cover scrumhalf like Kwagga Smith, but only in an emergency.
De Villiers is included among six forwards on the bench in a 6-2 split against Italy.
Grant Williams and Manie Libbok are the only designated backline replacements on the South Africa bench.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus confirmed that flanker Paul de Villiers has the skillset to cover in the backline, including at scrumhalf, like Kwagga Smith. However, Erasmus emphasized that the five-cap forward would only be used there during an emergency in Saturday's Nations Championship Test against Italy.

South Africa selected a 6-2 bench split featuring six forwards, with Grant Williams and Manie Libbok serving as the lone backline reserves. Erasmus pointed out that the squad possesses sufficient backline versatility across multiple positions to manage potential injuries without intentionally repositioning De Villiers into the backs.

Read the full article on SA Rugby Magazine

Paulie D can play nine like Kwagga

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