Springbok flyhalf Handre Pollard says he is embracing the pressure that comes with playing in the Rugby World Cup semi-final when they take on England on Saturday.

The match begins at 21h00 on Saturday, while New Zealand faces Argentina in the other semi-final on Friday evening.

“Many players in this squad did not have an easy upbringing, so for us (representing South Africa) in a game like this is a privilege rather than pressure,” said Pollard.

“Most of the players grew up under pressure and they enjoy it, so we perhaps have a model to play World Cups. We are playing for our country, and it’s important that we leave everything out there.”

Pollard was ecstatic to be back in the squad and back on the pitch after a calf injury ruled him out of contention for the initial 33-man RWC squad, but he relished every moment of his return.

“Of course it was disappointing (not to make the original squad), but it was a time sensitive matter,” said Pollard. “We pushed as hard as we could to get me ready in time, but it was a few weeks too late to show the coaches that was fit.”

In his absence, Manie Libbok has done an excellent job of injecting an attacking spark into the Boks’ style of play, and Pollard, who shared the flyhalf duties in the quarterfinal victory over France, was effusive in his praise for his teammate.

“I can’t praise Manie enough for the way he’s playing and handling the pressure,” said Pollard.

“He’s a humble guy and works extremely hard, and he works for the team. He’s got a lovely dynamic way of playing towards us as a team, that’s a lovely thing and something that we’ve all embraced and enjoyed as well. Whatever are roles are for myself or him wherever we play it’s all towards the team and what we can do best for them.”

Pollard concurred with SA Rugby Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus that England had a bone to pick with them following a 32-12 loss in the 2019 Rugby World Cup final and a 27-13 loss at Twickenham last year, and he stated that they needed to be up to the challenge.

“I could see the disappointment on their faces four years ago, and I’ve lost a semi-final before, and when that happens you look at yourself,” said Pollard.

“I think they’ll be ruthless and take the physicality to the next level. So of course, there’ll be beef, but we have to go out there and do the job.”

Photo by Steve Haag Sports