When Jordan Hendrikse gets the opportunity to ask two-time Rugby World Cup winner Handre Pollard about his Springbok journey, it will be a question of pressure.
With ice running through his veins, Pollard played a crucial role in the Boks’ successful defense of the Webb Ellis Trophy in France last year. He was at his best during the knockout rounds, when the country was brought to tears.
In light of the Leicester Tigers flyhalf’s invitation to a Bok alignment camp the following month, Hendrikse is curious as to how he handles such extreme pressure.
During last week’s training at Hoërskool Florida, Lions No. 10 contemplated, “I would start by asking what are the toughest lessons he has learned?
Big lessons
“Everyone has those big lessons in this game, and since he has been doing it well for the Boks, that lesson might be handling pressure in terms of a final kick.”
Although not entirely surprising, the 22-year-old’s selection in the alignment camp is nonetheless remarkable given how much his role has evolved this season as a rookie flyhalf. He has been making an impression off the bench as Sanele Nohamba’s replacement at 10 for a few months now.
In that regard, his playing time has been restricted. He may have started the previous season hesitantly due to a lack of confidence and match fitness, and a catastrophic injury may have psychologically hindered his return to activity following an extended layoff.
But everything seems to be in the past now, and it was only a matter of time until he was included in Cassie Erasmus’s plans as the Bok coach.
Hendrikse has also gradually regained some form over the last several games. There were glimpses of his skill when he entered the game as a replacement in the 59th minute of the Lions’ most recent loss against the Bulls.]
Attacking impetus
Indeed, it could be argued that his 20-minute cameo afforded the Lions a bit more structure and attacking impetus, which had been flailing up until then, in a losing cause. Although his ambitions are beyond his current role, Hendrikse understands with maturity beyond his years that sometimes one must pay one’s dues first.
“It is a lot different from starting,” he explained. “You need to be a diverse player in terms of playing the role of impact player … Whether the team needs me to play centre, flyhalf, or fullback, I am here to serve the team. I am a dynamic player that can play anywhere.”
Given the uncertainty surrounding his immediate future with the Joburgers—rumors strongly suggest that the former Glenwood High alumnus has signed with the Sharks—and the exciting times ahead with widespread attention, Hendrikse can be excused for diverting his focus from what is currently expected of him.
To get their campaign back on track, the Lions need to defeat the Sharks this coming weekend at Ellis Park in the United Rugby Championship. They are five points off of a play-off spot and in a depressing 11th position in the rankings.
