**Ugo Monye Advocates for Young Star Henry Pollock’s Lions Inclusion**
Anticipation is mounting as the British and Irish Lions prepare to announce their squad for this summer’s tour of Australia, with former Lion Ugo Monye championing the selection of Northampton Saints’ rising star, Henry Pollock. At just 20 years old, Pollock has captured the attention of rugby fans and experts alike, rapidly establishing himself as one of the most exciting prospects in the game.
Pollock’s emergence onto the rugby scene has been nothing short of remarkable. Only recently integrated into Phil Dowson’s Northampton squad, he has contributed significantly this season, not least with a standout performance in the European Champions Cup semi-final. His electrifying try from the halfway line against Leinster was pivotal in securing a 37-34 victory, propelling Saints into their first European final since 2011. Such moments have underscored not only his athleticism but his capacity to change the course of high-stakes matches.
Monye, who was a try-scoring sensation during the Lions’ 2009 tour of South Africa, has spoken ardently about Pollock’s qualifications for a spot on this year’s tour. “His confidence to run 45 metres and score a try — that’s not something you see every day, especially from someone of his age on such a big stage,” Monye told reporters. He also praised Pollock’s fearless introduction to the Leinster match, noting his willingness to confront world-class players head-on.
The young flanker’s statistics are compelling: twelve tries in 24 appearances this season across club and international rugby, including two on his England debut against Wales in the Six Nations. His swift rise has surprised many, but as Monye points out, Pollock is exceeding expectations so frequently that superior performances have almost become routine.
However, despite his meteoric ascent, Pollock faces stiff competition for a coveted place on the Lions roster. With only about seven slots available for back-row forwards and a depth of options hailing from all four home nations, the selection will be fierce. England’s talent pool already includes the likes of Ben Earl and Tom Willis, while Ireland, Wales, and Scotland can each boast players with considerable international pedigree.
Notwithstanding the competition, Pollock’s unique style and work ethic set him apart. Monye contends that Pollock offers a distinctive approach in the back row — a blend of youthful energy, mature decision-making, and relentless determination. According to Monye, Pollock’s performances have “obliterated every challenge and obstacle in his path,” and he sees no reason why the Wallabies should be any different.
One of the ongoing debates surrounding Pollock’s selection is his age and relative lack of experience at international level. While some see this as a drawback, Monye advocates a philosophy popularised by the late Sir Matt Busby: “If you’re good enough, you’re old enough.” Pollock, who has captained England at the under-18 level, has already proven he can handle the pressures of senior rugby.
What is perhaps most striking about Pollock is his ability to deliver on the biggest stages with a sense of composure and enjoyment. Monye has stressed that while Pollock’s game is still developing, which is expected of someone so young, his impact cannot be ignored. Monye adds, “He’s playing at a level that is completely unignorable right now. His work rate and competitive edge are second to none.”
As the Lions selection looms, the rugby community will be eager to see whether Pollock’s dazzling form and potential can earn him a seat on the plane to Australia. With influential voices like Monye weighing in, the 20-year-old’s case for inclusion continues to gather momentum and intrigue. Regardless of the outcome, Pollock’s rapid rise serves as a testament to the value of nurturing young talent within the game.
The final Lions squad announcement promises to spark lively debate, not least about whether age or experience should trump current form. For now, though, Henry Pollock remains a player impossible to overlook — and the rugby world waits with bated breath to see if his extraordinary season will be rewarded with one of the sport’s highest honours.