'No bigger challenge': Pollock eyes Springboks after PREM glory
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Nations Championship clash between South Africa and England is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated showdowns of the international season.
Adding further intrigue is the presence of one of England’s brightest young talents, Henry Pollock.
The 21-year-old was named Player of the Match in Saturday’s Premiership Final after helping Northampton Saints secure a 26-17 victory over Exeter Chiefs and claim their second league title in three years.
While the celebrations at Northampton are likely to continue for some time, Pollock’s attention will soon turn to England’s upcoming Nations Championship opener against the world champions Springboks.
Pollock is not unfamiliar with South Africa; he was part of the England Under-20 side that secured the World Rugby U20 Championship title in 2024 in the country.
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“We’ve got three big, big Test matches,” he told the Guardian.
“Obviously the Six Nations didn’t go our way, and we are still hurting from that a little bit.
“I’m buzzing to get into camp and be around the boys again. There is no bigger challenge than going to South Africa and playing away at altitude in one of the biggest stadiums in the world.
“Those are the things you dream of.”
Pollock has become a polarising figure among South African supporters, with his fiery on-field personality and confrontational approach earning mixed reactions.
Asked whether he understood why some South Africans appear to have taken a dislike to him, Pollock replied: “No.
“They can talk all they want. I guess I keep showing up.”
The upcoming series will also provide Pollock with an opportunity to measure his progress against the best players in the world.
“Obviously I want to let my hair down [this weekend], but I know in the back of my mind we’ve still got a job to do. There are lots of demands on us, but we trust in the coaches and staff to manage us well.
“Those games are the ones you want to play in. You want to go away and play against the best in the world.”
Source: The GuardianÂ
