Julian Montoya believes the Vodacom Bulls have struck gold with the re-signing of Handre Pollard, describing the Springbok flyhalf as a massive loss for Leicester Tigers.
Pollard, who will return to Loftus on a two-year deal from 1 July, has been instrumental since joining Leicester in 2022. In his debut Premiership season, the two-time world champion racked up 144 points in 14 matches, surpassing his injury-hampered stint at Montpellier.
He took his play to the next level during the 2023-24 campaign with Tigers, with 152 points across 19 appearances, including two tries to go with precision goal-kicking.
The 31-year-old has this season scored two tries and kicked 31 conversions and nine penalties, and remains integral to director of rugby Michael Cheika’s plans as Leicester push for playoff honours in the English top-flight and face Vodacom URC champions Glasgow Warriors in the Investec Champions Cup Round of 16.
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Speaking to Rugby365, Montoya praised Pollard’s influence at Welford Road, both on and off the field.
“Polly [Pollard], first of all, is a great guy,” the veteran Argentina captain said. “He’s one of my closest friends I have at Leicester. He’s a lovely man and great to have around.
“As a player, there’s not much more I can say that you haven’t seen. He’s experienced, he knows the game very well, and his kicking is amazing. He’s going to be a big loss for sure.
“We still have big games to play, and we’re looking forward to that. Hopefully, we can use his experience and quality to give back to the team and get the victories we’re looking for.”
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