Handré Pollard Backs Bulls Scrumhalf Embrose Papier for National Recall Following Elite United Rugby Championship Performances

Handré Pollard discusses Embrose Papier’s potential Springbok recall and his vital role for the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 15, 2026, 6:00 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

A Resurgence in the Bulls Backline

The competitive landscape of South African rugby has shifted its focus to the scrumhalf position as Embrose Papier continues to deliver a series of high impact performances for the Bulls. Speaking from the team’s base in Toulon, flyhalf Handré Pollard noted that Papier is currently playing some of the most effective rugby of his career. According to Pollard, the halfback has successfully integrated a high tempo attacking game with tactical control, providing the necessary service to allow the Bulls' backline to flourish during their current northern hemisphere tour.

Navigating the Path to National Selection

Despite the mounting public pressure for a Springbok recall, Pollard has advised his teammate to remain focused exclusively on his weekly contributions to the franchise. The World Cup winning flyhalf emphasized that while Papier is performing at an elite level, the final decision regarding national honors rests entirely with the Springbok coaching staff. The strategy for Papier, as framed by Pollard, involves maintaining his current trajectory and avoiding the distractions of selection speculation while the Bulls push for a favorable position in the United Rugby Championship standings.

The Impact of Absence and Return

The true value of the scrumhalf's contribution was underscored during a recent Bulls defeat to the Stormers, a match Papier missed due to unavailability. In his absence, the side struggled to maintain the clinical energy and speed of service that has become their hallmark this season. His subsequent return immediately restored the attacking spark to the lineup, demonstrating that he is more than just a facilitator but a primary driver of the team’s collective momentum. This reliance on his individual skill set has further strengthened the argument for his inclusion in broader representative squads.