Tigers help Pollard sharpen Bok claws
10/31/2024 03:13 AM
Leicester Tigers coach Michael Cheika has helped spark the resurgence of veteran flyhalf Handre Pollard, and put him back in front of the Springboks’ playmaker race.
In an op-ed by The Roar, the column traces how Pollard, after an injury-plagued period and Rugby Championship benching, has evolved under Cheika’s guidance at Leicester.
It notes that two-time World Cup winner Pollard has transformed his game, shifting from a kick-heavy approach to a more balanced kick-to-pass ratio that aligns with the Boks’ new attacking structure under Tony Brown.
According to The Roar, Pollard’s versatility at Leicester, where he operates as both a traditional No 10 and a creative inside centre, strengthens his case for various roles in the current Bok set-up.
The article suggests Pollard could potentially fill Willie le Roux’s role in the Bomb Squad, making him a valuable utility option as Rassie accommodates specialist flyhalf Manie Libbok and emerging talent Feinberg-Mngomezulu.
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“With the rise of more agile and supposedly 'more creative' and flair-based alternatives with a similar level of kicking game and the raw breaking threat that suits the transition kicking game of the Springboks, Pollard has had his own place in the starting line up of the Springbok team called into contention,” it reads.
“His future in the squad depends on his ability to maintain a high standing in both the 10 and 12 jersey, especially if he is to become the next No 23.
“Under Michael Cheika, we have seen a return to the Handre Pollard of old, the one that straightened up and waltzed through All Black defences; perhaps a little slower and sharper this time round.
“Pollard is not to be counted out in the Bok No 10 jersey race, regardless of the form of Libbok or SFM.
“His versatility at 10 or 12 has seen him become a world class operator in both, as the structure of the Tigers allows him to make a convincing case for both positions in a Springbok jersey.”
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
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