Henry Pollock turns 20 on Tuesday – the same day Steve Borthwick names his Six Nations squad – and in a losing cause for a patched-up Northampton side, who saw Fin Smith withdraw due to illness shortly before kick-off, the teenage tyro did all he could to ensure the perfect birthday present.
Pollock stole the show in a breathless first quarter, scoring two tries and helping Northampton race into a 21-0 lead. Stade Français responded in brutal fashion, tails up and unplayable for the best part of an hour, finishing the match with seven tries and ensuring a difficult evening for Northampton. Pollock’s showing is some silver lining, however.
