In the world of rugby, few names resonate quite like that of Handre Pollard.
And the two-time World Cup-winning Springboks flyhalf is once again at the centre of attention as his contract with Leicester Tigers approaches its end, a situation that has sent ripples of excitement through possible rugby suitors.
Reports indicate that as many as 10 clubs around the globe are keen on securing Pollard’s talents, with offers exceeding R10 million a piece sparking a competitive frenzy.
Currently contracted to Leicester Tigers, Pollard's future beyond this season remains uncertain. The English rugby club is eager to retain their star player, but official inquiries from multiple teams — including some in South Africa — suggest that interest in the accomplished flyhalf is intensifying.
Among the clubs vying for Pollard's signature, four Japanese are reportedly leading the charge, leveraging their financial prowess to offer salaries that are difficult for most local South African teams to compete with.
There is a growing trend of top-tier players seeking opportunities in Japan, where the appeal extends beyond the financial package. The quality of life and the less physical nature of the game in the country are massive draw cards.
The experienced Pollard earned between R15 million and R20 million per year in England and it’s going to be difficult for any South African team to match it, even with the help of SA Rugby.
But one team that should make a play for Pollard could be the Bulls, who actually have the financial muscle. Co-owned by billionaires Johann Rupert and Patrice Motsepe, they could easily dip into that well and scoop up the money.
It’s actually a no-brainer for the Bulls to bring Pollard back to Pretoria, as they need a No 10 of his stature to take them all the way and win that elusive United Rugby Championship title after ending up losing the 2022 and 2024 finals.
Johan Goosen, who is currently out with a long-term knee injury, has struggled to stay fit and find consistency for a long period of time, while the likes of Boeta Chamberlain and Chris Smith aren't really first-choice pivots.
Coach Jake White has even given veteran Bok fullback Willie le Roux the odd show in the position during matches, but he is also not a long-term solution.
Pollard is a quality player and knows the culture of the team having moved up to the country’s capital after school. But most of all, he brings that winning mentality as the most clutch rugby player on the planet.
Pollard is the man to bring titles back to Pretoria. It may cost them an arm and a leg, but there is silverware at the end of that rainbow.
@JohnGoliath82