Share

Mallett: Pollard doesn’t crack under pressure

Cape Town - Former Springbok coach Nick Mallett has heaped praise on the recent performances of Bulls flyhalf Handre Pollard.

After two injury-plagued seasons, Pollard is regaining the form that saw him play as South Africa’s first-choice No 10 at the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

Pollard's form has steadily improved for the Bulls in recent weeks and despite the team’s home loss to the Highlanders last weekend, the pivot was a prominent figure.

He contributed 11 points to his side’s cause in a 29-28 defeat, including scoring an intercept try in which he ran almost half the length of the field.

Mallett, who commented on the game in the SuperSport studio, said he was impressed by Pollard’s efforts.

“I think the most important thing we know about Handre is that he is a physical flyhalf who takes it to the line and he is a very good defender. He’s got a very good powerful kick and he kicks well for poles, so those are the basics. What he really has learned now is he is bossing the game better from 10. He is varying his kicking game, there was one magnificent relieving kick he put in today, 70m up-field, to turn the momentum in that second half,” Mallett said.

“He seems to be a guy that doesn’t crack under pressure. He’s got a stricter personality, good leadership and he is finally over his injury. So there are a lot of things going for him in this position. He played the World Cup in 2015, so clearly, he is a guy who can take the pressure and it is great to see him back at this level.”

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1471 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE