Springboks ready to hand Frans Steyn-baton to matured Willemse, but demand performance

Buckle up, Springbok fans.

The new Frans Steyn is ready to be unleashed on opponents in 2022.

National coach Jacques Nienaber expressed his delight at being able to select Damian Willemse at fullback for Saturday's first of three Tests against Wales at Loftus Versfeld, specifically because it signifies the belated start of a plan to fully harness the talents of the Stormers play-maker.

The 24-year-old was slated to be South Africa's first-choice No 15 on last year's end-of-year tour to the UK, only to see Willemse's adventure end after 13 minutes due to concussion.

Nienaber and co though had the consolation of seeing him flourish in the Stormers' triumphant United Rugby Championship (URC) campaign, where his undeniable gifts were complemented by newfound calmness and consistency.

Much of Willemse's best exploits came from inside centre though it should be taken into account that he, along with Warrick Gelant and Manie Libbok, operated interchangeably in different backline positions during matches with some spectacular results.

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"Since Damian has started with us, we've made him a project where he can fulfil a similar role for us to Frans," said Nienaber.

"He's a guy that can play No 10, 12 and 15. Damian is definitely in that mould for us. I'm so happy for him [that he performed so well in the URC]. 

"Last year we had a plan for him and then unfortunately against selfsame Wales, he got concussed. He wasn't up for selection for the rest of the tour. I hope, touch wood, that things will work out for him this year and we can give him an extended run.

"We want to give him as much exposure at international rugby as we can ahead of the World Cup."

But that