Henry Pollock eyes Springboks clash after Northampton’s final victory
Northampton Saints back-row Henry Pollock has set his sights on England’s upcoming Test against South Africa after starring in his club’s Premiership final victory.
The 21-year-old delivered a player-of-the-match performance as Saints secured the title in front of 80,000 fans.
It marks a rapid ascent for the dynamic forward, who has recently garnered a growing fanbase and a high-profile partnership with sports promoter Eddie Hearn.
Impact on the biggest stage
The highly rated prospect has repeatedly proved his worth in high-pressure situations, following up a dominant semi-final showing against Leicester with a commanding final display.
Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson was quick to praise his powerful number eight following the title-winning triumph.
“He does things in terms of his speed and power and his ability to stay in the game,” Dowson said.
“Last week he had 26 carries, I don’t know how many carries he had in the final. His impacts throughout the game are fantastic.”
Blocking out the noise
Despite almost tripping as he charged out of the tunnel before kick-off, the youngster displayed immense maturity throughout the intense domestic contest.
The rising star attributes his recent play-off form to a shift in mental approach rather than any tactical changes.
“I haven’t changed anything, no. It’s probably more a mindset thing,” he explained.
“These are the games you want to step up in. You want to be one of those players that step up in big games.”
Springboks test awaits
With an international call-up looming against the physical South African pack in a fortnight, the forward is determined to ignore external expectations.
“People can talk all they want. I have always said in my career, I don’t listen to outside noise, I don’t listen to people’s opinion.”
“I am very much locked into my role and my team, and what I need to do for the team and the coaches.”
The confident back-rower remains resolute in his belief that silverware will ultimately define his burgeoning career.
“At the end of the day, it’s white noise. It doesn’t matter to me, it doesn’t go into my brain. We’ll win trophies, I guess.”
