Ruan Venter v Henry Pollock? Lions star relishing possible 'theatrical' England showdown
United Rugby Championship
Lions enforcer Ruan Venter is keeping a close eye on England's Henry Pollock ahead of a potential July showdown at Ellis Park. Before the Boks come calling, Venter has six URC games to prove he belongs on the big stage. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
There is a stark contrast regarding the rugby identity between Ruan Venter and Henry Pollock, despite any superficial similarities they might share.
For sure, both pack down at the side of the scrum, both are considered players yet to have reached their full potential and both are undoubtedly talented players.
The former, however, is a bruiser, a unit on the blindside who is ready to take on the gainline with a powerful carry. There is nothing flamboyant or nuanced about Venter’s ability, although his skills on and off the ball are undeniable.
The controversial Pollock, meanwhile, is a finisher who, and regardless of his antics, possesses X-factor and guile in spades. With Venter (23) and Pollock (21) both in the infancy of their international careers, the rugby gods may well decree a collision as early as July.
Venter, recently returned from a Springbok alignment camp, looks to be in Bok coach Rassie Erasmus’ plans for the future, whether that be at flank, lock, or both; while Pollock enjoyed a healthy amount of game time in the recently concluded Six Nations.
The Boks and England are now on a collision course on 4 July, when they meet for their match in the Nations Championship at Ellis Park, presenting the first possible opportunity for the two to pack down against each other.
Venter, currently preparing with the Lions to face Edinburgh on Saturday at Ellis Park (kick-off 2.45pm) in the United Rugby Championship, is not counting on a Bok call-up just yet, but like many South Africans, is looking forward to having Pollock on South African soil.
“Everyone knows he is quite theatrical,” said Venter. “He likes the other stuff.
“I think he is a fantastic rugby player as well. If you have an opportunity to play against him, it would be quite fun because there is a lot of hype around him. You can’t take away what he does on the field, but it would be quite nice to play against him.”
Should he remain fit and avoid the referee’s notebook, Venter will have six URC matches, starting with the Scottish franchise this weekend, to convince Erasmus he deserves to add to his singular Test appearance when England, Scotland, and Wales tour here later in the year.
Who knows, perhaps he will even get the opportunity to eyeball Pollock then.