Flamboyant England flanker Henry Pollock has sparked debate among South African fans ahead of the Test against the Springboks at Ellis Park on 4 July.
Pollock, 21, posted a message on social media before the England squad left London for Johannesburg. It read “See you soon” alongside a South African flag and blood emojis. The comment drew strong reactions from some Springboks supporters.
Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has urged his team to focus on Pollock’s on-field output rather than his personality. Erasmus said Pollock’s “output is awesome” and compared the hype around him to that surrounding Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu.
Former Bok Duane Vermeulen described Pollock as similar to a young Schalk Burger. He noted the player’s ability to bring excitement to the game while acknowledging the mixed reactions he receives.
Pollock has posted strong numbers in the 2025/26 Premiership season. He averaged 18 carries and 12 tackles per game and signed with promoter Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Talent Agency in March.
