Handré Pollard will leave Leicester Tigers to return home to South Africa and join the Vodacom Bulls at the end of the season. Pollard, a two-time World Cup winner, has expressed his dedication to finishing his time at Leicester successfully. Leicester’s management understands his decision to reunite with family after years abroad.
Handré Pollard, a two-time World Cup champion, is set to return to South Africa after three seasons with Leicester Tigers at the conclusion of the current campaign. Pollard has signed with the Vodacom Bulls, the team he initially joined in 2014, marking a return to his roots after six years in Europe. His journey includes stints at Japanese club NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes and French side Montpellier between 2015 and 2019.
Pollard has expressed his dedication to finishing his time at Leicester Tigers on a high note, having achieved 395 points in 45 appearances since joining the club before the 2022-23 season. His impressive performances led to a recall to the South African squad during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, where he contributed significantly to their success.
Upon announcing his decision to leave Leicester, Pollard commented on the difficulty of this choice, emphasizing his affection for the club and his teammates. He explained that returning home to South Africa and reconnecting with his initial club was an opportunity that felt right for both him and his family. Pollard reaffirmed his commitment to completing the remaining season with Leicester successfully.
Leicester Tigers General Manager, Richard Wilks, expressed disappointment over Pollard’s departure but acknowledged the rationale behind it, highlighting the importance of family and familiar surroundings for the player. Wilks noted that Pollard remains focused on achieving success for the Tigers in the current season, stating,
“As he has said, this isn’t a farewell. Handré hasn’t left yet and we know how set on winning silverware as a Tigers player he is, which is what his remaining time at the club is all about.” Pollard has resumed training with his teammates in preparation for the upcoming match against Munster Rugby on March 14 at Mattioli Woods Welford Road, ahead of the Gallagher Premiership’s return the following weekend.
In conclusion, Handré Pollard’s impending return to South Africa marks a significant transition in his career after three successful seasons with Leicester Tigers. His commitment to finish the current season with the club reflects his professionalism and dedication to his teammates. While he expresses a bittersweet departure, the move home to the Vodacom Bulls symbolizes a personal and professional milestone in his journey.
Original Source: www.leicestertigers.com
