Paulo's numbers tell a clear story: across five Currie Cup appearances as a replacement, his tackle output is the dominant feature of his game, averaging nearly seven per match with a peak of 18 in a single outing. His carrying is steady rather than explosive, contributing consistent metres without overreaching his role. The combination points to a forward who comes on with a specific defensive mandate and delivers on it reliably.


Vernon Paulo is a professional rugby union replacement registered with the Free State Cheetahs, the South Africa-based franchise. He forms part of the matchday squad and is tasked with bringing physicality and skill to the matchday squad.
As a replacement, Vernon features for the Free State Cheetahs across the United Rugby Championship, the Currie Cup and European club competition, with home fixtures played at South Africa in South Africa.
Follow Vernon Paulo's match appearances, fixtures, results and the latest Free State Cheetahs news on Octafield — South Africa's home of rugby.