England coach Steve Borthwick believes Henry Pollock will handle whatever physical welcome the Springboks prepare for him at Ellis Park on Saturday, pointing to the loose forward's consistent performances against sides that have attempted to nullify his impact.
Borthwick named Pollock on the bench when he announced his matchday 23 on Thursday afternoon, but expects the 21-year-old to deliver his trademark energetic display when introduced against the world champions. Asked whether Pollock would face a targeted reception from the South African pack, Borthwick referenced the flanker's form across European competition this season.
"The challenge, as we've all seen it throughout European rugby, especially where teams see what he gives to the opposition, see what he gives to his own team, and they want to try and nullify that," Borthwick said. "I've seen that over and over. Yet Henry Pollock just always seems to shine, doesn't he? Henry Pollock seems to thrive."
The England coach described Pollock as a player who brings joy and positivity to the squad, highlighting his interaction with youngsters from the Atlas Foundation at St Stithians in Johannesburg last week. Borthwick also praised Pollock's willingness to develop his game, recounting a training-ground conversation in which technical points were immediately implemented into practice.
While some South African supporters view Pollock's on-field demeanour as arrogant, Borthwick painted a contrasting picture of an engaging character whose enthusiasm lifts those around him. The question facing Rassie Erasmus's side is whether they can succeed where other teams have failed this season in containing the blond-haired flanker's influence.