Springbok flyhalf Handré Pollard is on the cover of the new SA Rugby magazine, on sale now.
The 20-year-old has had a dream 2014, captaining the Junior Boks to two wins against the Baby Blacks in New Zealand, making his Super Rugby debut for the Bulls, and making his Test debut against Scotland before going on to replace Morné Steyn as the Springboks' first-choice flyhalf.
In the new issue of SA Rugby magazine, Pollard speaks about his frustration at initially having to warm the Bulls bench, how he doesn't even contemplate failure, dealing with the hype that surrounds him, how Heyneke Meyer has given him licence to play to his strength, his relationship with Steyn, and the 2015 World Cup.
Also in the new issue:
– Schalk Burger still has a big role to play for the Boks, as a starter or substitute
– Francois Hougaard has proved himself to be a good Springbok scrumhalf. Now we wait to see how much more he can offer
– From the schoolboy too big to lift in the lineouts, Brodie Retallick has become close to the complete lock for the All Blacks
– Western Province played with balance and intelligence over the course of the Currie Cup campaign and were deserved winners in the final
– Nizaam Carr is starting to realise his true potential
– WP coach Allister Coetzee on winning the Currie Cup, playing the situation, and lessons learned that can benefit the Stormers
– Johan Goosen joined French club Racing Métro to develop his game and secure his financial future
– Our Saffas in France XV, based on club form in October and early November
– Gary Gold and Hugh Reece-Edwards on coaching company-owned teams in Japan and adjusting to a different way of life
– Being a regular starter for his Japanese club has helped Elton Jantjies to regain his form and confidence
– Alistair Hargreaves has proved to be the ideal replacement for Steve Borthwick as Saracens captain
