Henry Pollock reveals Man United player who inspired his celebration - it's not who you'd think

Tuesday, 03 February 2026 at 17:21

byRugby Rucker

The Six Nations 2026 kicks off this weekend, and one young rugby star has fans talking — not just for his skills on the pitch, but for a celebration that’s already turning heads.

England flanker Henry Pollock is on the bench for the opener against Wales, but there’s more to watch than just his performance.

Watch the Guinness Six Nations at your local Greene King sports pub.

England vs Wales: Six Nations 2026 opener

Date: Saturday, 7 February 2026
Venue: Allianz Stadium, London
Kick-off: 16:40 GMT
England squad highlights: Jamie George captains; Maro Itoje and Henry Pollock are on the bench; Henry Arundell returns on the wing.
England will be looking to start strong after finishing runners-up last year, while Wales always bring intensity to this fixture.

Why it matters: Momentum in the first round can shape the entire tournament. England vs Wales is one of the fiercest rivalries in the Six Nations, with both sides eager to make a statement.

Henry Pollock’s celebration inspiration

The buzz around Henry Pollock isn’t just about his rugby. Speaking to Jamie Redknapp, Pollock revealed the inspiration behind his now-famous celebration — and it’s none other than Manchester United fullback Diego Dalot.

Pollock, a lifelong Man United fan, is clearly bringing a touch of Premier League flair to the rugby field, merging football style with Six Nations intensity. Fans will be watching closely to see if the celebration makes an appearance when the flanker comes on.

Henry Pollock facts: 15 things you didn’t know about the England star

1. His gym stats are just plain ridiculous

Henry Pollock can squat a monstrous 230kg for three reps and bench 140kg for two. Oh, and he hits 10 metres per second at full tilt. Not bad for a flanker, right?

2. He's staying put – for now

Despite serious interest from rival clubs, Pollock penned a multi-year deal with Northampton Saints back in December. The Prem champs weren’t letting this star go anywhere.

3. He exploded onto the international stage

Pollock announced himself in style, scoring two tries on debut in England’s emphatic 68–14 demolition of Wales in Cardiff during the 2025 Six Nations.

4. The youngest Lion of 2025

Pollock is the youngest member of the 2025 British & Irish Lions squad, and he’s been handed a very special job: looking after BIL the Lion teddy – a tradition he takes over from Louis Rees-Zammit.

5. He’s got the most unique try celebrations in rugby

Pollock doesn't just score – he puts on a show. Against Leinster, he checked his pulse after dotting down – a tribute to Manchester United’s Diego Dalot. In another match, he went full NBA mode with a basketball-style jump shot using the rugby ball. Iconic stuff.

6. Born to compete

Born 14 January 2005 in Banbury, Oxfordshire, Pollock has always had a fire in his belly. “I wanted to be the best at… probably everything,” he told The Telegraph.

7. Sporting greatness runs in the family

Pollock’s family is built for elite sport. His mum, Hester, was a national-level triathlete, and his dad, John, also has a strong sporting background. His sister, Zoe, competes as a 400m hurdler at the University of Georgia, and he has one brother, Angus. Safe to say the competitive streak runs deep in the Pollock household.

8. He started out as a scrum-half – until he got too gobby

Pollock’s first rugby position? Scrum-half. But a coach moved him after deciding he talked too much: “You’ve got a big mouth, we’ll put you at seven.” The rest is history.

9. A Saint since his early teens

He’s been part of the Northampton Saints set-up since under-13s and signed his first pro deal in 2023. A one-club man so far – and a key part of their future.

10. Made his mark in the Premiership and Europe

Pollock made his Prem debut in November 2023 against Leicester Tigers, followed by his Champions Cup debutagainst Castres in December 2024.

11. Dominated the U20s

During the 2024 Six Nations U20s, Pollock picked up three Player of the Match awards and was later crowned Player of the Tournament. Total domination.

12. He stepped up for England A

Pollock continued to impress with England A, earning Player of the Match in their win over Australia A in November 2024.

13. He could’ve played for Scotland

Though now firmly an England man, Pollock was also eligible for Scotland, with both parents born north of the border.

14. He’s balancing rugby and uni life

He’s not just smashing tackles – he’s hitting the books too. Pollock is currently studying part-time for a Sports Management degree at Loughborough University.

15. His rugby idols are a who’s who of back-row greats

Growing up, Pollock looked up to Michael Hooper and Richie McCaw. Closer to home, former Saints legends Courtney Lawes and Teimana Harrison also shaped his game.

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