Springboks news: Stormers star Paul de Villiers embracing challenge of first national camp

Springbok hopeful Paul de Villiers says the intensity and standards of the national set-up have already made a major impression on him as he continues to push for a breakthrough opportunity in green and gold.

The DHL Stormers loose-forward has emerged as one of the standout bolters in Rassie Erasmus' extended squad after several strong seasons at provincial level, and the 26-year-old is now hoping to make the most of his opportunity as the Springboks prepare for their season-opening fixtures.

With the Barbarians and SA 'A' matches fast approaching, De Villiers admitted the experience has already provided valuable lessons.

Learning from the best

"It's only been a week, but it's been awesome, and I've learned a lot," De Villiers told SA Rugby.

"We have great players in the squad, who we are all learning a lot from, so it's a perfect scenario.

"We also have good coaches who have been great at giving us advice."

The forward has built a reputation as one of the most consistent performers in the Vodacom URC in recent seasons and now finds himself competing alongside some of the world's best players in the Springbok environment.

Intensity levels stand out

Asked about the biggest differences between provincial rugby and the Springbok set-up, De Villiers pointed to the standard of training sessions.

"I think the training standards have been a massive thing," he said.

"You are competing against guys that also play for the Springboks, and all the players want to be here.

"So I think the intensity of the training sessions is one of the main differences."

Competition for places remains fierce across the squad, particularly among the loose forwards, where South Africa continue to boast significant depth.

For De Villiers, however, the focus remains on making the most of every opportunity.

Excitement mixed with nerves

While many supporters have identified him as one of the players capable of forcing his way into the Springbok conversation this season, De Villiers insists he is focused solely on the task at hand.

"I wouldn't say the penny has dropped," he said.

"For me, the main thing will be to get the job done on the field, and I'm excited, although there are some nerves.

"The other stuff obviously comes after that, but that's not where the focus lies at this stage."

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Davids pleased with squad progress

Springbok assistant coach Deon Davids praised the attitude shown by both the younger and more experienced players during camp.

"It's fantastic having the young players in the squad and mixing things up with the more experienced players, so there's good progression from our alignment camps into this camp," Davids said.

"That has also formed a good understanding about what is expected of everyone and about how we do things."

Davids added that the coaching group has been encouraged by the energy shown throughout the opening stages of preparation.

"It's been good to see the energy and enthusiasm and how the players have related to one another and worked together to get things done."

Opportunity knocking

The coming weeks could prove pivotal for several of the Springboks' uncapped players, with opportunities expected across both the senior side and SA 'A'.

For De Villiers, the challenge is clear.

After establishing himself as one of the Vodacom URC's most reliable performers, he now has the chance to prove he belongs at the highest level of South African rugby.

And judging by his first impressions of Springbok camp, he appears eager to embrace every moment of the journey.

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