Pollard fit and available? Image: PlanetRugby
Springboks: Handre Pollard makes huge Rugby World Cup announcement
The Springboks have just received a timely boost from Handre Pollard ahead of the defence of their Rugby World Cup crown.
Pollard fit and available? Image: PlanetRugby
The Springboks have received an intriguing boost ahead of the Rugby World Cup with Handré Pollard declaring his fitness ahead of the showpiece in France.
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Pollard back in training ahead of Rugby World Cup
Springbok flyhalf Handré Pollard is back in full training and even getting trialed at inside centre. Pollard was one of three big omissions from the Bok squad alongside Lukhanyo Am and Lood de Jager because of a calf injury. However, he did travel with the world champions to the UK and is on the standby list.
According to Sunday newspaper Rapport, Pollard is close to full fitness and has even returned to training this week.
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Pollard’s new role for the Springboks?
Head coach Jacques Nienaber was reportedly keen to field Pollard at No 12 during the Rugby Championship before he was struck down with injury. The 29-year-old has played there before, having been deployed at inside centre for French side Montpellier. Scrumhalf Faf de Klerk told Rapport that 2019 World Cup top-points scorer Pollard is ready if called upon.
“Handré is training fully and he looks good, like the old Polly. It’s nice to have him in the group, among other things because of his experience and leadership,” said De Klerk.
“I think he’s burning to play again. He is completely fit again and now he is waiting for his chance.”
Manie Libbok is the only specialist flyhalf in Nienaber’s 33-man squad, with Damian Willemse a backup option in that position. Faf de Klerk says he can also step up in that pivot role if required.
De Klerk did put his hand up as a third-choice option at No 10.
“Even at U19 level with the Lions, I mainly played flyhalf. So I have experience at flyhalf. At No 10 you have to organize more and make sure everyone is in position. The flyhalf decides what to do next. That’s the biggest difference between nine and No 10.”
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The world champions begin the defence of their coveted William Webb Ellis crown against Scotland on September 10th in Marseille.
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