Handré Pollard believes the different flyhalf strengths in the Bok squad will provide Heyneke Meyer with healthy options at the World Cup, writes CRAIG LEWIS.

The Boks will kick off their World Cup campaign against Japan on Saturday, with Pollard likely to be the man entrusted to start out in the No 10 jersey.

However, as has been the case since he began his international career, Pollard faces stiff competition from Pat Lambie while Morné Steyn boasts a tactical game that would be well suited to conditions in the northern hemisphere.

‘Competition is always a great thing,’ Pollard commented from the team’s base in Eastbourne. ‘If you’re going to play for the Springboks that’s always going to be the case, these are the best players in the country. Pat has been playing very well, and I’ve had opportunities to play with him recently; when he’s come on he’s done a great job.

‘Between Pat, myself and Morné I think you’ve got three different flyhalves, but that’s good because it provides a nice blend and allows the coach to decide on what he wants for each match, and then we’ve just got to deliver.’

Pollard said there were no egos or ill-will between the three pivots.

‘Pat and Morné are probably the best examples of that sort of thing, they never have a bad word to say about anybody. They’re always positive, always working hard and always encouraging.

‘That is the great thing about the Boks at the moment, we have a great culture and a great sense of caring for each other.’

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