Stormers youngster De Villiers relishes Siya Kolisi test but keeps eyes on bigger URC picture

Saturday’s coastal derby in Cape Town won’t be sold as a personal duel, but the battle at the breakdown could play a decisive role when the Stormers take on the Sharks at the DHL Stadium.

With Springbok captain Siya Kolisi set to return to face the Stormers and in-form young fetcher Paul de Villiers continuing his impressive rise, that contest around the ruck is bound to draw attention.

The 23-year-old loose forward of the Cape side is adamant that making it about individuals would be missing the point, especially with the hosts focused on maintaining their unbeaten run in the United Rugby Championship (URC).

Facing the Sharks is an exciting prospect though and he looks forward to the battle against a star-studded visiting team.

De Villiers have been named Player of the Match in four games this season, and he attributes that to the progress the Stormers are making and the way they are currently playing. His latest accolade came this past weekend in the Champions Cup against Leicester Tigers.

However, he is not too focused on the personal milestones but more on the goals of the team - the latest one being a victory over the Sharks.

“It is any players dream to test yourself against the best, whether it be Siya or any of their other players,” De VIlliers said.

“Yes, I am looking forward to it, but we will focus on our game and not the names the Sharks will bring. They are on the up. It will be important to maintain our standards and every weekend we strive to reach it. Some weekends we do good, others not so.

“We will take confidence into this match (knowing that they are unbeaten at home against the Sharks), but we also know prior results doesn't really count in a derby. It is always 50/50. Whoever they bring, won’t impact our preparation.”