South African rugby star Handré Pollard is gearing up to take on Australia in a one-off Test, despite having only played twice for the Springboks this season. The 32-year-old flyhalf has had an illustrious career, winning two World Cups, earning 87 Test caps, and scoring 837 points. He is just 56 points behind the all-time leading scorer, Percy Montgomery. Pollard's motivation and passion for the game remain unwavering, as evident from his emotional response to a recent injury that kept him out of the four-match series against the All Blacks.
Pollard's injury, a calf muscle tear, occurred during training for the second Test against New Zealand. He described the incident as an accident, where he stepped away to accelerate and the pitch slipped, putting too much tension on his calf. Despite the setback, Pollard expressed his excitement to be back in action and contributing to the team. His dedication and commitment to the sport are clear, as he continues to work hard and push himself to be better.
The Springboks' flyhalf position has become increasingly competitive, with Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Manie Libbok vying for the No 10 jersey. Pollard views this competition as a positive force, driving him and his teammates to improve. He believes that the presence of younger players in the system has created a healthy dynamic, with everyone striving to perform at their best.
Pollard's approach to the game has matured over the years, but he insists that his mentality and approach to Test-match rugby remain unchanged. He emphasizes the importance of set pieces, kicking game, and a solid defence in achieving success at the highest level. The 32-year-old flyhalf has seen many players come and go, but he is optimistic about the talent and potential within the current squad.
As Pollard prepares to face Australia, he is mindful of the challenges that lie ahead. He acknowledges that experience plays a significant role in navigating different styles, conditions, and teams. While he praises Feinberg-Mngomezulu's talent, Pollard stresses that it takes time to develop the necessary skills and expertise. He is committed to helping his teammates grow and improve, and he is confident that they are all still learning and developing.
Pollard's journey to this point has been marked by perseverance and determination. He initially missed selection for the 2023 World Cup but received a late call-up and played a crucial role in the Springboks' victory. His passion for the game is evident, and he is driven to continue pushing himself to achieve more. As he closes in on another milestone, Pollard is focused on the task at hand and eager to make a meaningful contribution.
With his sights set on the upcoming Test against Australia, Pollard is clear about his goals and aspirations. He is motivated by the opportunity to perform at the highest level and to help his team succeed. As one of the most experienced players in the squad, Pollard is committed to sharing his knowledge and expertise with his teammates, while also continuing to learn and grow as a player.
Key points
- Handré Pollard is 56 points behind all-time leading scorer Percy Montgomery.
