‘Completely fit’ Handre Pollard ‘burning to play again’ – report

Dylan Coetzee

Handre Pollard of South Africa during Autumn International Series match between England and South Africa, at Twickenham Stadium on 20th November , 2021 in London, England (Photo by Action Foto Sport/NurPhoto)

World Cup-winning Springboks fly-half Handre Pollard is reportedly fully fit and waiting for his chance to return to the fold for the South African side.

According to Rapport in South Africa, the Leicester Tigers star, who was left out of the Springboks 33-man World Cup squad due to injury, has taken part in full training last week.

Pollard an option at 12?

The reports also state that Pollard was getting some time at inside centre where it is believed head coach Jacques Nienaber was set to give him a run during the Rugby Championship if it were not for concerns over his recovery.

Manie Libbok has stepped up in Pollard’s absence, looking particularly good in attack. However, the major concern is the fly-half’s goal kicking which has been unsatisfactory and will be a lingering thought in Nienaber’s head going into the World Cup.

Springbok veteran Faf de Klerk spoke to Rapport and claimed Pollard is raring to go if he gets the opportunity to.

“Handré is training fully and he looks good, like the old Polly. It’s nice to have him in the group, among other things because of his experience and leadership,” De Klerk told Rapport.

“I think he’s burning to play again. He is completely fit again and now he is waiting for his chance.”

The defending champions had a good outing this weekend against a weakened Wales side where the South Africans ran in eight tries in a 52-16 win over Warren Gatland’s side.

Siya Kolisi’s return

Arguably the most encouraging aspect of the victory was the remarkable return of inspirational captain Siya Kolisi, who recovered very quickly from a bad knee injury suffered in his final game with the Sharks.

All the concern that he may be rushing back or could show rust was quickly invalid as the Springbok captain took three minutes to assist a Malcolm Marx try. He was quality throughout his 40 minutes on the field and the Springboks will be delighted with his efforts.

READ MORE: Eight-try Springboks put 52 points on Wales in Siya Kolisi’s comeback game