The Springboks are set to welcome back experienced flyhalf Handre Pollard after Rassie Erasmus confirmed when the veteran playmaker will return to Test rugby.
Pollard was initially expected to play a major role in the Springboks’ recent series against the All Blacks after being selected to start the second Test in Cape Town.
However, those plans were disrupted when the 32-year-old suffered a calf strain during training, forcing him to miss the remainder of the series.
Now, there is positive news for the experienced flyhalf.
Pollard set for Wallabies clash
Erasmus has confirmed that Pollard has recovered from his injury and is expected to return when the Springboks face Australia in Perth on Saturday, 26 September.
The return will provide the Boks with another experienced option at flyhalf as they navigate the remainder of their international season.
Pollard’s recent Test appearances have been limited, with the flyhalf featuring in only seven Tests over the past two years. Despite that lack of regular game time, his experience remains highly valued within the Springbok setup.
His tactical understanding, leadership and reliable goal-kicking have made him an important figure in the squad.
Pollard’s return could therefore give Erasmus another proven option as he continues to manage his squad during a demanding international campaign.
Franco Mostert also nearing a return
Pollard is not the only experienced Springbok expected to return.
Lock Franco Mostert, who picked up an injury during the season-opening match against the Barbarians, is also expected to be available for the Wallabies Test in Perth.
That could allow Erasmus to make several changes to his starting XV when the Boks travel to Australia.
However, the coaching staff are currently focused on a much more immediate challenge.
All Blacks clash remains the priority
Before thinking about Australia, the Springboks have a crucial assignment against the All Blacks in Baltimore.
South Africa currently leads the series 2-1, meaning a victory or draw would be enough to secure the title. A New Zealand victory, meanwhile, would result in the trophy being shared.
The significance of the contest has not been lost on the Springboks, with Jasper Wiese emphasising how important another victory over their historic rivals would be.
“For this group, it would be something amazing to achieve,” Wiese said, stressing that the team is treating the series with the same seriousness as previous major campaigns.
Springboks preparing for Baltimore showdown
After arriving in Baltimore, the Springboks began their on-field preparations following recovery work and meetings.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 23:00 South African time and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
For the Springboks, the Baltimore encounter offers another opportunity to make history against their biggest rivals while continuing their impressive recent run against New Zealand.
For Pollard, meanwhile, the focus will be on completing his recovery and being ready for the next stage of the campaign.
If all goes according to plan, the experienced flyhalf will make his return against the Wallabies in Perth on 26 September — giving Erasmus another major selection option as the Springboks push through the remainder of the season.
