Handre Pollard: ‘I won’t be perfect’ against Tonga

Sunday’s Test will be an important game for flyhalf Handre Pollard, who makes his return to the side for the first time since August last year following calf and knee injuries – a challenge the player adopted with a realistic mindset.

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THE POLLY BACKSTORY

Pollard initially missed out of World Cup selection due to his injury woes, but was called up as replacement for Malcolm Marx, who’s tournament came to an abrupt end when he tore his knee ligaments in training.

But Pollard’s long-awaited return to the Test match fold was fast-tracked this week after Manie Libbok and Faf de Klerk’s horror show performances off the kicking tee against Ireland.

If Pollard passes this test with flying colours, it’s almost certain that he will reclaim the No 10 jersey for the knockout stage of the competition, which would stand to reason considering those sort of playoff games can so often be decided by goal kicks.

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POLLARD READY TO DO HIS BIT FOR SPRINGBOK GLORY

But having only played one club game since regaining his fitness, Pollard is realistic about his expectations and has warned others to do the same.

“It’s unbelievable to be back in the team and in this environment, and I’m trying to enjoy every day,” said Pollard.

“The calf injury I suffered was supposed to keep me out for four weeks and it ended up being three months.

“Not being selected for the World Cup squad was tough, but such is life. The coaches told us to remain positive and I was lucky to get the call.”

Commenting about his expectations in his first game back, Pollard said: “I’m realistic about this weekend. Playing 30 minutes of club rugby is very different to playing in a World Cup. I just want to express myself, although I know it won’t be perfect.”

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