In a tantalizing Twickenham clash, Handré Pollard leads Leicester against Harlequins, returning to the scene of his recent heroics for the Springboks. The South African maestro orchestrated a trademark victory over England just six weeks ago, his metronomic boot proving the difference once again. Now he’s back in club colors, relishing the chance to stamp his authority on one of rugby’s grandest stages.
For England fans, the sight of Pollard lining up a crucial kick has become a recurring nightmare. The 30-year-old has an uncanny knack for delivering under pressure, as he demonstrated in the World Cup semi-final and the Autumn Nations Series. There are few better goalkickers in world rugby, and Pollard’s unflappable temperament makes him a constant threat.
You’ve got to embrace it. It’s why we do what we do, when you’re a five-year-old kid practicing in the back yard, that’s what you were imagining.
– Handré Pollard on pressure kicks
Springboks’ Mr. Reliable
Pollard’s reliability has been a constant throughout South Africa’s recent dominance. Even during a year of experimentation, Rassie Erasmus knows he can call upon his trusty fly-half to steady the ship. Two Rugby World Cup winner’s medals are a testament to Pollard’s big-game prowess.
Of course, it hasn’t always been plain sailing for the Springboks or Pollard. The nadir came in 2017 with a 57-0 drubbing by the All Blacks. But those tough times have made the success all the sweeter.
Because we went through that we appreciate the good times a lot more now. It was really bad in 2016 and 2017. We had a lot of learning to do but that’s a reason we don’t take it for granted.
– Handré Pollard reflects on South Africa’s journey
Injury-Free and Firing
After an injury-plagued spell, Pollard is now reaping the rewards of an extended run in the side. His recent man-of-the-match display against the Sharks, in which he pulled the strings in a 56-17 demolition, underlined his importance to Leicester’s Premiership aspirations.
The Tigers suffered a shock defeat to Bristol last time out, so the Twickenham tussle with Quins takes on added significance. Victory would put Leicester in pole position for a top-four finish and a return to HQ for the play-offs. Pollard’s game management will be key to their chances.
Cheika’s Midas Touch
Pollard reserves special praise for head coach Michael Cheika, who has transformed the mindset at Welford Road since his summer arrival. The experienced Australian has made an instant impact, and Pollard has been impressed by his player management.
He’s just a really enjoyable guy to play for and in a long season that helps a lot. There are going to be ups and downs along the way but as long as the environment is positive and it’s a good place to be you’re probably going to be in and around the top four.
– Handré Pollard hails Michael Cheika’s influence
Smith Showdown
On Saturday, Pollard will once again lock horns with Marcus Smith, the darling of English rugby. The contrast in styles between the structured Springbok and the mercurial Quin promises a fascinating duel. Smith has the flair to conjure magic from nothing, but Pollard’s tactical polish could prove decisive.
It’s a battle that could have ramifications for England’s World Cup hopes. Smith endured a difficult autumn campaign, while Pollard delivered the decisive blows. Eddie Jones will hope his young tyro can sparkle at Twickenham and lay down a marker for the global showpiece.
But Pollard is a man for the big occasion. He’s tasted glory at the very highest level and has a habit of rising to the challenge. If he can summon another commanding display, Leicester will fancy their chances of avenging last season’s disappointment and mounting a serious title tilt.
The stage is set for a titanic tussle. Will Pollard produce another Twickenham masterclass, or can Smith weave his magic and inspire Quins to a famous victory? One thing’s for sure – with these two world-class fly-halves pulling the strings, it promises to be a Christmas cracker.
