Northampton Saints flanker Henry Pollock is set for a fiery reunion with Bordeaux Bègles this Sunday, reigniting a rivalry that boiled over in last season's Champions Cup final. The 20-year-old England star, who turns 21 next Wednesday, carries a "white-hot ambition" into the European clash, undeterred by past confrontations.
A Rivalry Rekindled in the Champions Cup
The fixture holds extra spice after last May's final, where Bordeaux's Jefferson Poirot received a two-match ban for grabbing Pollock by the throat. Several other UBB players appeared keen to join in, taking a collective dislike to the young Englishman's exuberant style. Phil Dowson, Northampton’s director of rugby, anticipates a targeted approach, stating the team must be ready to "go toe to toe with them."
For Pollock, the perceived line between unshakeable confidence and arrogance is fine. Yet, he shows no intention of dialling down his trademark energy. "I’m never satisfied in anything I do," he says, describing himself as "a normal kid who has this amazing drive to want to be the best."
England Eyes on a Potential Starter
This high-stakes match offers Pollock a prime opportunity to press his case for a starting role with England. So far, he has made five Test appearances as a 'super sub', scoring two tries on debut in Cardiff. He has not been on the losing side in 11 games this season, a statistic that makes him hard for selectors to ignore ahead of the Six Nations.
His highlights reel is already bulging: a try against Australia, a spectacular chip-and-chase at Sale, and a cheeky 'pulse check' celebration after scoring against Leinster. Dowson believes "his ceiling is huge," praising his physical capability and high rugby IQ, but notes the key will be sustained application and managing his energy.
The Man Behind the Flair
Away from the peroxide hair, TikTok dances, and try celebrations, Pollock reveals a more nuanced character. His current reading is The Courage to be Disliked, a book about self-improvement. He is quick to point out that outside perceptions don't concern him. "The only thing that matters is what my mates, my family and the coaches think about me," he states.
His motivation is clear for 2026: winning a trophy with Northampton, starting for England in a successful Six Nations team, and making an impact on the summer tour to South Africa. The prospect of facing the Springboks doesn't intimidate him. "If there is some sort of beef there it’s good for the sport," he says. "Fans want to watch it."
First, his focus is squarely on Bordeaux. "They were the better team [in the final] so obviously we’re going to have some sort of hurt from that," Pollock admits. "Hopefully we’re going to right some wrongs." As he enters his 21st year, the rugby world watches, expecting this uniquely talented back-rower to continue his remarkable ascent.
