Pollard unlikely to feature against Ireland

Starting ten when South Africa beat England in the final four years ago, he is by far the most experienced operator available to the side in his position.

South Africa's Handre Pollard (left) tackled by Wales' Nick Tompkins. Pic: David Davies/PA Wire. 

Handré Pollard, called up late last night to the Springboks’ World Cup squad, is unlikely to feature against Ireland in the crucial Pool B clash between the countries at the Stade de France next Saturday.

The Leicester Tigers out-half was omitted from the original 33-man squad due to a calf injury but had spent time with the Boks pre-World Cup and returned to the field for his club in a friendly against Sale on Friday.