South Africa’s Handre Pollard converts a try. Image: REUTERS/Peter Cziborra/File Photo
Why the Springboks will sorely miss Pollard at the Rugby World Cup
An injury to Handre Pollard leaves a gaping void for the Springboks to fill as they aim to defend their Rugby World Cup crown in France.
South Africa’s Handre Pollard converts a try. Image: REUTERS/Peter Cziborra/File Photo
Make no mistake, the absence of Handre Pollard is a massive blow for the Springboks as they seek to defend their Rugby World Cup crown.
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Pollard pivotal in 2019
Handre Pollard produced a virtuoso performance for the Springboks in Yokohama against England in 2019, which goes down as one of the great individual displays in the sport. Handre Pollard scored 69 points at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, 11 more than any other player. Owen Farrell, his opposite number in the final, scored 58. In the final, when it really mattered, Pollard mustered a display for the ages. Aggressively proactive almost from the first whistle, he struck a perfect balance between ball-carrying and kicking out of hand that flyhalves don’t consistently achieve in the modern game. 22 of the Springboks’ 32 points came from the then-25-year-old’s boot, including six penalties and conversions for both tries.
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The complete package
Pollard is an aggressive line-breaking player when the situation calls for it. His tactical kicking out of hand is superb, and his goal-kicking prowess is almost second to none. Replacing a player of his calibre and experience is an almost impossible task.
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Not only did Pollard dominate the final four years ago, but he also steered the Boks there in a nerve-jangling 2023 semi-final. Pollard kicked 14 points when the Springboks eventually saw off Wales 19-16. It would be an understatement to say that he was an integral part of their success in the land of the rising sun.
How will Jacques Nienaber’s men cope without Pollard’s BMT and vast experience in France? Let us know in the comments. Before then, they line up against the All Blacks at Twickenham on Friday in a blockbuster pre-World Cup clash.
Meanwhile, hit up James Freemantle for more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game of rugby.
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