WITH DEON FOURIE OUT INJURED, STORMERS ARE GOING…

THE Stormers’ worst fears were confirmed yesterday, with veteran Deon Fourie officially having suffered a broken tibia in their win over Connacht last weekend. 

Director of coaching John Dobson said after the match that he fears for the future of the 38-year-old, with a broken tibia resulting in months on the sidelines. 

Fourie, though, is not one to sit on the sidelines and sulk and was back at training again on Monday, with forwards coach Rito Hlungwani explaining: “Losing a player of Deon’s calibre and experience is a major blow, but Deon was in yesterday and today - he’s one of the guys that really contribute to the team in different ways. 

“He will still be present, He’s really put Paul de Villiers under his wing. 

“It is tough, but we’re moving forward and he’s helping us move forward.”  

De Villiers, 22, is looking to cement his place in the team now, with the Stormers out to secure their spot in the United Rugby Championship's top eight. 

With Italy’s Benetton coming to town this weekend, Hlungwani is excited to see De Villiers make the openside flank position his own. 

The coach says of the youngster: “[Paul was] quite impressive [after starting the match against Connacht last weekend]. 

“We are looking forward to see him pick up more experience.” 

Hlungwani adds of De Villiers’ style of play: “He is a typical openside flank - he has a high workrate, and a very good tackle technique. 

“He’s quite effective there [on defence] and always first at the breakdown, so our ball is always protected.” 

With Brannas Fourie egging him on to fill the big boots he has now left vacant at least until the end of the season, De Villiers will be looking to go balls to the wall against the Italians this weekend.