Damian Willemse embraces being Boks' new Frans Steyn: 'I enjoy playing various positions'

If Damian Willemse feels burdened by being considered the Springboks' new Frans Steyn, he's definitely not showing it.

The Stormers talisman's selection at fullback for Saturday's first Test against Wales at Loftus has been one of the main talking points this week, particularly as speculation swirls over whether he'll have to move to flyhalf should something befell Elton Jantjies.

That intrigue merely increased when Bok coach Jacques Nienaber gleefully stated that Willemse is indeed the heir apparent to the two-time World Cup winner, who can play at No 15, 12 and 10.

"Being able to play a number of positions is something I have been working on with the coaches for a few years now and I'm comfortable with it," said Willemse.

"At the Stormers, I have also been playing multiple positions — I even went to the wing in one game against the Sharks." 

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There's a difference though, to merely being used to slot in as a utility back and actually embracing the role.

'I welcome it'

Fortunately for the Boks - and as evidenced by his excellent United Rugby Championship campaign - Willemse does the latter.

"I enjoy being able to play the various positions and it is definitely a skill set that I have been working on in training under the instructions of the national coaches,"  he said.

"And if this is going to make me as useful as Frans Steyn, I welcome it."

It also means he's more than willing to act as pivot, even though he hasn't been operating as a specialist flyhalf for over a year.

"If Elton goes down, I can cover at 10 or 12. Willie [le Roux] is also coming in and he's very good at playing as the first receiver and running the pods.

"It depends