In a remarkable ascent within rugby union, Henry Pollock is on the brink of earning a Test cap with the British and Irish Lions. After an impressive year that includes helping England claim the World Rugby U20 Championship title, Pollock is now focused on making a significant impact in the Lions’ upcoming series against Australia.
On July 19, 2024, Pollock played a crucial role in England’s 21-13 victory over France in the U20 Championship final held in Cape Town. A year later, he could be featured in the first Test against the Wallabies in Brisbane under the guidance of head coach Andy Farrell. Pollock, now 20 years old, has demonstrated poise and skill throughout his rise, showing no signs of being fazed by the challenges ahead.
Confidence and Adaptability on the World Stage
Reflecting on his rapid journey, Pollock stated, “It’s all come so fast and I’m just trying to enjoy the ride and enjoy every moment.” His enthusiasm was evident after scoring a try in a recent match against the AUNZ Invitational XV in Adelaide. As the youngest player on the Lions tour, Pollock has embraced his role, from bonding with teammates to fulfilling the cherished duty of taking care of BIL, the team mascot.
“Bundee Aki has been the main one trying to hide him from me so far,” Pollock joked. “There have been a couple of occasions where I’ve put him down during team runs or warm-ups and then turned around to find he’s not there. But it’s a great tradition, and I’m honoured to have him by my side.” While his light-hearted approach is commendable, Pollock is determined to be remembered for his contributions on the field.
His standout performances since lifting the U20 trophy have included two tries during his senior debut against Wales in Cardiff and impressive displays throughout Northampton Saints’ run to the Champions Cup final. Pollock’s dynamic play and infectious energy have made him a key figure in both club and international rugby.
Competition and Commitment in the Back Row
Pollock understands the competitive nature of the Lions squad, stating, “Everyone wants to play, and it’s a competitive group, especially in the back row.” He is up against accomplished players such as Josh van der Flier, Jac Morgan, Tom Curry, and Ben Earl for a position in the Test lineup. Despite this challenge, Pollock remains focused on his development and supporting his teammates.
His coach, Mark Mapletoft, who guided Pollock through the England U20s program, remarked on his impressive journey: “Anyone who said they saw that coming would be distorting the truth a little bit. Henry has always been a high achiever.” Mapletoft emphasized the importance of maintaining energy and enthusiasm as Pollock transitions into senior rugby, a quality he has successfully retained.
Known for his aggressive playing style and ability to create “highlight moments,” Pollock’s potential to shine in the Lions tour has been recognized by Farrell, who included him in the original 38-man squad. Mapletoft noted that consistency in key performance areas will define Pollock’s success as a back-row player.
As Pollock prepares for the upcoming Test series, he has expressed confidence in his team’s capabilities, stating he believes the Lions can achieve a 3-0 series victory against Australia. With his track record of resilience and skill, many anticipate that Pollock’s next chapter could indeed be written in the history of the Lions, possibly featuring a Test-winning performance.
The British and Irish Lions tour of Australia will be broadcast exclusively by Sky Sports, covering all three Tests and six warm-up matches live. As Pollock continues to rise, rugby fans worldwide are eager to witness how his journey unfolds on this prestigious stage.
