Bulls have a special place in my heart

Two-time World Cup-winning Springbok flyhalf Handre Pollard says he is “beyond excited” to be heading back to the Vodacom Bulls.

The Bulls confirmed on Saturday that the 30-year-old had signed a two-year contract which starts on 1 July.

Pollard played 72 matches for the Bulls across all competitions from 2013 to 2019, before joining French Top 14 club Montpellier. He has spent the last three seasons at English Premiership club Leicester Tigers.

Pollard had been heavily linked to a move to Japan, but ultimately opted to return to South Africa.

“I am really grateful for this opportunity,” he said. “It’s something I don’t take for granted. Being able to come home after a great few years overseas, I’m beyond excited.

“⁠I started my career at the Bulls, and those six years played a massive role in the person and player I am today. This team and franchise have always had a special place in my heart, and I can’t see myself anywhere else in South Africa.”

Pollard added that he hoped to end his time with the Tigers on the high.

“I’m extremely proud to be and have been a part of this club and group. It was three of the most enjoyable seasons of my career, and I’ll be forever grateful to have been a Leicester Tiger.”

MORE: Handre heading back to SA

Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone said they were pleased to bring an experienced Pollard back to Loftus.

“He left us as a 24-year-old with so much to offer this game and returns six years more mature and seasoned with a lot of time under his belt.

“He had only 39 caps for the Boks, and now he boasts 80 international caps. He has a wealth of international club rugby experience, which will be great for us as we continue to settle and challenge for silverware in competitions against major European clubs.

“Pollard has invaluable experience, especially if you consider the average age of our group.”

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