An euphoric atmosphere was experienced at the O2 Arena during the unveiling of the British & Irish Lions team, with more than 2,000 fans present. Among the crowd, several Northampton Saints jerseys stood out, anticipating a special moment.
The anticipation grew with each name announced, but the explosion came when Ieuen Evans, the Lions tour manager, pronounced the name of Henry Pollock. The reaction was deafening, as if all of Northampton were present, celebrating the recognition of their young star.
British & Irish Lions match schedule for the tour of Australia.
The inclusion of Pollock, 20, in the team is bold, considering his limited experience in test matches (32 minutes). However, those who witnessed his performance in Northampton’s victory over Leinster understood coach Andy Farrell’s decision.
Meteoric Rise
Pollock’s rise has been remarkably rapid. In January 2023, a Northampton staff member already pointed to Pollock as a player to watch, predicting a promising future. His energy, aggression, and confidence on the field set him apart.
In the following 18 months, Pollock consolidated, being selected for the England U20 team and earning minutes in the Premiership. His name echoed in the halls of Twickenham, anticipating his future in the English national team.Andy Farrell explains why he excluded Owen Farrell from the Australia tour squad.In this year’s Six Nations tournament, Pollock started with the under-20 team, but ended up on the first team’s bench in the match against Wales. There, he scored two tries, leaving a lasting impression.
In a later interview, Pollock expressed his hope of being a starter on the England summer tour. Although at that time, the Lions’ aspirations seemed distant, the young flanker was revolutionizing the established order.
A “Pleasant Bighead”
Since the match against Wales, the “Pollock-mania” has intensified. His outstanding plays, such as the try against the Sale Sharks and his provocative score against Castres, have generated enthusiasm.Pollock is rapidly becoming a cult hero in Northampton.Pollock, with his authentic personality, is admired by the new generation. In a podcast, he defined himself as a “nice stubborn person”.
If you don’t know him, you want to hate him, but as soon as you get to know him, you can’t help but like his energy and personality. He is ridiculously competitive with everything.
On the eve of the Lions team announcement, Northampton posted a video on their social media showing the changing room at halftime in Dublin. Pollock, serene, captured everyone’s attention with his words, reminding us of the young Owen Farrell on the 2013 Lions tour.
Farrell trusts that Pollock will shake up the tournament. The competition for a place in the third line has intensified, and Pollock has the opportunity to join the Lions’ history.Henry Pollock scored two tries in his England debut.Farrell emphasized that age is irrelevant when looking at a player’s performance. Pollock is ready to compete and challenge others, seizing this opportunity to prove his worth.
