It seems even rugby legends can't resist the allure of a good social media showdown. Schalk Burger, the South African powerhouse, has tossed a cheeky jab towards England's rising star Henry Pollock, suggesting the young gun's real game is more about TikTok fame than rucking and mauling. Yet, despite the playful digs, Burger acknowledges that Pollock's dynamism is vital for England's strategy under coach Steve Borthwick.
During a recent episode of the Boks Unpacked podcast, Burger, alongside rugby comrades Jean de Villiers and Hanyani Shimange, couldn't help but comment on Pollock's dual life as an internet sensation and a rugby player. "It’s a different era. He’s a TikTok dancer and he plays a little bit of rugby on the weekend. His main gig is to be on social media," Burger remarked with a grin.
"The way England set up their team, they’ve got the three loose forwards on the bench – Curry, him and Cunningham-South – he comes on and he just flies around and tries to make a big impact. It suits him to a tee,"
Burger added, highlighting how Pollock's role is tailor-made for his explosive style.
Despite the gentle ribbing, Burger was quick to emphasize the serious asset Pollock has become for the English squad. With his youthful exuberance and undeniable talent, the 20-year-old has stirred quite the conversation among rugby enthusiasts and critics alike. While Burger might chuckle at Pollock's TikTok antics, he firmly believes the young forward is a game-changer. "In that English side, he’s got to be in the 23 every weekend because he can change a game quickly," he asserted.
As the world of rugby watches on, Henry Pollock continues to be a fascinating blend of modern-day celebrity and traditional sportsman, proving that even in the gritty world of international rugby, there's a little room for a dance or two—as long as you can back it up on the field.
England's team: Tom Curry, Henry Pollock, Cunningham-South.
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It seems even rugby legends can't resist the allure of a good social media showdown. Schalk Burger, the South African powerhouse, has tossed a cheeky jab towards England's rising star Henry Pollock, suggesting the young gun's real game is more about TikTok fame than rucking and mauling. Yet, despite the playful digs, Burger acknowledges that Pollock's dynamism is vital for England's strategy under coach Steve Borthwick.
During a recent episode of the Boks Unpacked podcast, Burger, alongside rugby comrades Jean de Villiers and Hanyani Shimange, couldn't help but comment on Pollock's dual life as an internet sensation and a rugby player. "It’s a different era. He’s a TikTok dancer and he plays a little bit of rugby on the weekend. His main gig is to be on social media," Burger remarked with a grin.
"The way England set up their team, they’ve got the three loose forwards on the bench – Curry, him and Cunningham-South – he comes on and he just flies around and tries to make a big impact. It suits him to a tee,"
Burger added, highlighting how Pollock's role is tailor-made for his explosive style.Despite the gentle ribbing, Burger was quick to emphasize the serious asset Pollock has become for the English squad. With his youthful exuberance and undeniable talent, the 20-year-old has stirred quite the conversation among rugby enthusiasts and critics alike. While Burger might chuckle at Pollock's TikTok antics, he firmly believes the young forward is a game-changer. "In that English side, he’s got to be in the 23 every weekend because he can change a game quickly," he asserted.
As the world of rugby watches on, Henry Pollock continues to be a fascinating blend of modern-day celebrity and traditional sportsman, proving that even in the gritty world of international rugby, there's a little room for a dance or two—as long as you can back it up on the field.
England's team: Tom Curry, Henry Pollock, Cunningham-South.