Handré Pollard, the two-time World Cup winner, will depart Leicester Tigers after the current season to join the Vodacom Bulls in South Africa. After a successful stint at Leicester, he expresses commitment to finishing strong with the team. Pollard’s decision, rooted in family considerations, aligns with his return to the club where he began his career.
After three seasons at Leicester Tigers, Handré Pollard will return to South Africa following the current season. The celebrated two-time World Cup champion has signed with the Vodacom Bulls, the team where he started his professional career in 2014. Pollard also briefly played for NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes in Japan before joining Montpellier in France in 2019.
Pollard emphasized his commitment to Leicester, stating, “There is a lot of rugby to be played and a lot of time left for me at Leicester Tigers, which I am focused on finishing successfully.” Since joining Leicester ahead of the 2022/23 season, he has made 45 appearances and accumulated 395 points.
Initially not selected for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Pollard’s impressive performance at Leicester led to his recall to the South African squad, where he helped the Springboks secure another title. Pollard expressed regret over leaving Leicester, remarking on the difficulty of his decision. He stated, “After a lot of thought, the opportunity to go home to South Africa… was one I felt was right for me and my family to take.”
Leicester Tigers General Manager Richard Wilks expressed disappointment at Pollard’s departure but acknowledged the player’s reasons. He remarked, “This chance for him to play back in South Africa, as well as being able to settle with his wife and son, is one we appreciate was too good to turn down.” Pollard has returned to training in preparation for Leicester’s upcoming match against Munster Rugby on March 14, 2023.
Handré Pollard’s return to South Africa marks a significant transition in his career, highlighting his commitment to family and his early roots in rugby. His successful tenure with Leicester Tigers and his contributions to the Springboks affirm his status as a leading player in the sport. As he prepares for upcoming matches, Pollard’s focus remains on concluding his time at Leicester on a high note.
Original Source: www.leicestertigers.com
