Handré Pollard will leave Leicester Tigers after three seasons to return to South Africa and join the Vodacom Bulls. He has made 45 appearances for Leicester, scoring 395 points. Pollard emphasized his love for Leicester while acknowledging the opportunity to return home with his family. He has returned to training as the Tigers prepare for their upcoming matches.
Handré Pollard, a two-time World Cup champion, will return to South Africa after three seasons with the Leicester Tigers. He has signed with the Vodacom Bulls, the club where he commenced his professional career in 2014. Pollard previously played for the Japanese club NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes in 2015 and joined Montpellier in France in 2019.
Having joined Leicester before the 2022/23 season, Pollard has made 45 appearances, accumulating 395 points. Initially omitted from the 2023 Rugby World Cup squad, his impressive performance for Leicester led to his reintegration into the Springboks, ultimately contributing to their triumph in the tournament.
Pollard expressed his reluctance to leave Leicester, stating, “It was a hard decision to make, to leave Leicester Tigers, because I love this club and being a part of this group.” He emphasized the significance of returning to South Africa after six years in Europe, believing it to be the right choice for him and his family.
Leicester Tigers General Manager Richard Wilks shared his disappointment regarding Pollard’s departure but acknowledged the personal reasons behind the decision. He highlighted that Pollard spent much of his career abroad and welcomed the opportunity for him to return home, especially to settle with his family.
Pollard has resumed training with the Leicester Tigers, preparing for their upcoming match against Munster Rugby on March 14 at Mattioli Woods Welford Road. The Gallagher Premiership will restart the following weekend.
In conclusion, Handré Pollard’s return to South Africa marks a significant transition in his career, allowing him to reunite with the Vodacom Bulls while cherishing his time with Leicester Tigers. Though he departs, his contributions to the Tigers and his commitment to finishing the season strong remain paramount. Pollard’s leadership and performance at the World Cup further underscore his high caliber as a player.
Original Source: www.leicestertigers.com
