Handré Pollard

South Africa Under 20 captain Handré Pollard has not been able to participate in the team’s build-up to the IRB World Junior Championship.

The tournament will be stage in New Zealand next month.

Despite the absence of two key players, Pollard (Bulls) and Thomas du Toit (Sharks), Baby Bok coach Dawie Theron is not concerned.

Pollard and Du Toit have been on Super Rugby duty.

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“Handré is in his third year with us and he knows our system very well,” Theron said.

“All his experience over the last three years will make it easier for him to slot in – he knows the coaches and he knows the culture of the team.”

According to Theron it is already evident that the squad is reaping the reward of their adjusted training schedule.

Unlike previous years, the squad spent a lot more time together before their departure to the Junior World Cup.

“It was very positive for us, and it was good that it was closer to the tournament,” the coach said.

“Our preparation will mean more for us because we played these games just before the tournament.”

“We also had a very hard contact session against Hamiltons earlier in the week, and that also went well.”

Theron reiterated his team will face a daunting challenge in New Zealand, where they are grouped in the same pool as the Kiwis, Scotland and Samoa.

“It is a very difficult group and is a big challenge for us, so we will take it one game at a time.”

“For now we don’t want to look too far ahead. We see Scotland as our most important match, so that we can get going and lay the foundation.”

“That’s why it’s so important to get it right from the start – but it’s also a great opportunity,” added Theron.

The Baby Bok coach added New Zealand will be under huge pressure in their own country.

“I think the pressure is massive on New Zealand, it will be a major challenge for them.”

Theron described his squad as big and physical but added that there is a good balance of skilful players as well.