3 days ago
‘A bittersweet goodbye': The Pollards prepare to return to SA
Handré Pollard and his wife Marise are preparing to bid farewell to their life in the UK as the Springbok flyhalf makes his long-awaited return to the Bulls.
After three years abroad with Leicester Tigers and five years away from South African rugby, Handré is officially heading back to Pretoria, where he will rejoin the Bulls on July 1. Accompanying him is his wife Marise and their growing family, including a baby girl due later this year.
In a heartfelt Instagram Story, Marise shared her emotions about leaving their home in Market Harborough. 'Our last week here, and my heart is heavy. Going to miss our life in Market Harborough so much,' she wrote.
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A new chapter
The couple's time in the UK marked a meaningful chapter for the Pollards. Their first child, baby Hunter, was born during their stay, and their British home reflected a beautiful blend of cultures — South African roots with a European backdrop. One of Marise's most cherished spaces was their safari-themed nursery, inspired by their homeland.
They also created a memory wall in their home, adorned with the co-ordinates of key locations in their journey: Where they met in Paarl, their first home in Pretoria, and residences in both France and the UK.
Marise has often shared her love for the UK and the life they built there. 'South Africa will always be our home. But I'm so grateful to call the UK home as well. I love this country, I love our life here, and I love this chapter,' she posted previously.
Expecting their second child and returning to their roots
With their second baby on the way — a little girl expected at the end of October — the timing of the move comes at a pivotal moment for the couple. Their return to South Africa allows them to be closer to family and re-establish themselves as Handré resumes his professional rugby career on home turf.
The announcement of Pollard's return to the Bulls has been met with excitement from fans, many of who are eager to see the seasoned flyhalf back in the local line-up.
Looking back with love, and forward with hope
While the move is undoubtedly filled with anticipation, it's clear the Pollards are also closing the door on a cherished chapter. For Marise in particular, the emotional weight of saying goodbye to a place that became home is palpable.
But with new beginnings on the horizon, both personal and professional, the couple now looks ahead to a new season—one rooted in family, familiarity, and the familiar roar of Loftus Versfeld.
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