Handre Pollard Reflects on South Africa Return: 'I Never Thought It Was Possible'
Springboks fly-half Handre Pollard opens up about his emotional return to South Africa with the Bulls and his journey with Leicester Tigers.
Image: Getty Images
Two-time Rugby World Cup winner Handre Pollard admits he never envisioned a return to South African rugby until recent structural changes opened the door for his homecoming. The 31-year-old playmaker will rejoin the Pretoria-based Bulls next season after three years with English Premiership side Leicester Tigers.
The Road Back to Pretoria
Pollard's career has come full circle. He made his professional debut with the Bulls in 2013 during their Super Rugby era before embarking on a European journey that saw him:
- Join Montpellier in France's Top 14 (2019)
- Sign with Leicester Tigers (2022)
- Win two World Cups with South Africa (2019, 2023)
"Just being able to go back home is something I actually didn't think was possible," Pollard revealed on BBC Radio Leicester. The key factor? South African teams joining the United Rugby Championship (URC) and European competitions.
The URC Game-Changer
The landscape shifted dramatically when:
- Bulls and other SA franchises entered the URC (2021)
- South African sides gained access to the European Champions Cup
- Players could compete at Europe's highest level while based in South Africa
"This wasn't an option when I left," noted Pollard. "Now I can play Champions Cup rugby without leaving Pretoria."
Leicester Legacy and Unfinished Business
While his Tigers tenure hasn't yielded silverware yet, Pollard:
- Helped Leicester reach the 2023 Premiership semifinals
- Played crucial role in their current European campaign
- Remains in contention for both Premiership and European honors
"There's still quite a lot to do," said Pollard ahead of their Champions Cup clash with Glasgow Warriors. "I fell in love with Leicester - it's been an unbelievable experience."
By the Numbers: Pollard's Impact
| Achievement | Year | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| World Cup Winner | 2019, 2023 | Match-winning kicks in both finals |
| Test Caps | 66 | Springboks' 3rd highest point-scorer |
| Premiership Appearances | 46 | Became Leicester's linchpin at 10 |
Pollard's homecoming marks a significant moment for South African rugby, proving the URC integration has created new pathways for returning internationals.
Listen to the full interview on BBC Radio Leicester's Tigers Rugby Show.
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