Paul de Villiers eagerly anticipating battle against Siya Kolisi

De Villiers has been a revelation on the side of the scrum for the Stormers so far this season.

He has been a terrier at ruck time as the ball fetcher and has won plenty possession and penalties for his efforts.

However, he will face a different challenge against the Sharks this weekend with Kolisi expected to return to action.

De Villiers has been magnanimous in the build up to the game, saying the contest is not about individuals or personal duels but admitted he is excited to test himself against the best players in the world.

"It is any players dream to test yourself against the best, whether it be Siya or any of their other players," he 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, but we also know prior results don't really count in a derby.

"It is always 50/50. Whoever they bring, won't impact our preparation."

While he has thrived as a fetcher for the Stormers this season, De Villiers is also wants to be recognised for other areas of his game.

"I'd like people to see me as an all-round player," he said. "The breakdown, defence and physicality are a big part of my game and the role of a No 6, but I also like having the ball in hand.

"I want to contribute on different levels - whether that's on defence, kick chase, or attacking and linking with the backs."

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