Springboks legend Schalk Burger has offered a far more positive assessment of Henry Pollock, having previously mocked the England star's social media antics.
The former South Africa flanker made headlines when he described Pollock as a TikTok dancer who played rugby at weekends.
However, Burger has also praised the Northampton Saints youngster's ability and believes he offers something different at international level.
Burger's brutal Pollock criticism
Speaking on the Boks Unpacked podcast last November, Burger questioned the attention surrounding the England forward.
"It's a different era," Burger said. "He's a TikTok dancer or whatever he is and he plays a bit of rugby on the weekend. His main gig is to be on social media."
His comments came after Pollock appeared in a viral video alongside several England teammates.
The criticism sparked debate, with the 21-year-old refusing to change his personality to please others.
Burger's more positive verdict
Yet Burger's assessment of Pollock's rugby ability has been notably different.
Speaking on RugbyPass TV's Boks Office in May 2025, he compared the youngster's impact to that of Springboks star Kwagga Smith.
"I like him, he brings something different," Burger explained.
"He's so dynamic, he's almost like having another back on the field."
Burger also suggested Pollock could become a major weapon for England from the replacements' bench.
He believes the forward's pace and energy make him particularly dangerous when matches begin to open up.
"There’s no doubt he’s going to start international rugby at some stage," he added.
Pollock refuses to change
Pollock has made it clear that criticism from former players will not affect his approach.
As RUCK previously reported, the Northampton star has defended his celebrations and outspoken personality.
"I'm not going to change wherever I go," Pollock insisted.
With the 2027 Rugby World Cup approaching, the youngster will hope his performances continue to do the talking.
Read also
Schalk Burger: Five facts about the Springboks legend
Schalk Burger is one of South Africa's greatest rugby players.
The former flanker won the Rugby World Cup and became a key man for the Springboks.
He was known for his hard tackles, strong runs and love of the game.
Here are five facts about the South Africa great.
1. He won the 2007 Rugby World Cup
Burger helped South Africa win the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France.
The Springboks beat England 15-6 in the final in Paris.
It was South Africa's second World Cup title.
2. He played 86 Tests for South Africa
Burger made his Springboks debut against Georgia in 2003.
He went on to win 86 caps and scored 16 tries.
His last Test came against Japan in 2015.
3. He was named the world's best player
Burger won the World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2004.
He was just 21 at the time.
The award came after a superb year for South Africa.
4. He survived a life-threatening illness
In 2013, Burger fell seriously ill with bacterial meningitis.
He spent weeks in hospital and feared he might never play again.
But he fought back and returned to Test rugby in 2014.
He even played at the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
5. His father also played for South Africa
Rugby runs in the Burger family.
His father, Schalk Burger Sr, played six Tests for the Springboks.
Burger followed in his father's footsteps and went on to become one of South Africa's most famous players.
