The “robber” of the rugby year: Handré Pollard, (almost) unexpected hero

"He is 28 years old ? I feel like he’s older than that.” In October 2022, Handré Pollard received this criticism from the former Scottish second row who passed through Montpellier, Jim Hamilton. The 29-year-old South African fly-half then joined the Leicester Tigers and some doubted his abilities. A few months later, the 29-year-old striker injured his calf and was not included in the Springboks squad for the World Cup in France. A hard blow for Siya Kolisi's teammates even if Manie Libbok and even Damian Willemse have the confidence of the staff. The native of Somerset West in the Western Cape province of South Africa is taking his troubles patiently. Then rejoins the group to everyone's surprise in place of... Malcom Marx, hooker.

Firefighter on duty after Libbok's foot failures, Pollard had a clean match with 100% success against the poles against Tonga. Back in the best of times, the former Montpellier fly-half was thrown on the bench against the Blues in the quarter-final. Coming into play shortly after the lemons, Pollard scored a penalty almost 50 meters away, winning, 10 minutes from time. Reassuring with his leadership, his experience, his solid defense on the man but especially with his boot, he was once again placed on the bench against the English in the semi-final. At the half-hour mark, Nienaber brings him in. The match changes.

In difficult conditions, the South African roamed the rearguard of the XV de la Rose, found touches near the opposing goal and, again, scored a penalty 50 meters from the posts at the end of the game. Libbok understands, Pollard is indeed back. Giant against the All Blacks in the final (he scored all 12 points for his team), the Leicester player was decisive in the South African coronation. After having been during the 2019 edition where he finished best director (69 points).

The flyhalf position has never been a problem for South Africa. From Joël Stransky to Butch James via Morné Steyn, the tank has always been full. However, in recent months, Pollard was perhaps no longer the 10th starter in the selection. Libbok seemed to have taken over. But who would have thought that one man could make such a difference? Not many people. Scotsman Jim Hamilton? Certainly not. The South African “Mr Plus” has not yet announced the end of his career. A new World Cup in four years? Possible. The player is only 29 years old.

Undermined by shoulder injuries but also a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament, the former Montpellier player has returned to his best level. “He has incredible courage, he handles pressure perfectly,” underlined his teammate Steven Kitshoff. Unexpected hero, Handré Pollard experienced a year full of twists and turns and emotions. But the Springbok has not yet experienced everything. In a few (short) months, he and his wife Marise will welcome a new addition to the Pollard family…