Rugby World Cup 2015: Pollard highlights Biggar threat

Handre Pollard made his Test debut against Scotland in 2014

Handre Pollard believes South Africa could face a "long day" if Wales fly-half Dan Biggar plays to his potential on Saturday at Twickenham.

Ahead of the World Cup quarter-final Pollard, 21, says Biggar has been the best fly-half in the tournament.

Osprey Biggar has kicked 14 of his 15 shots at goal in games against England, Fiji and Australia.

"He's been great. For me probably the in-form fly-half of the tournament," said Bulls' Pollard.

"He really has been kicking unbelievably well, and as we all know in play-offs that's the most important thing - you have to kick your goals to have a chance of winning the game.

"If Dan is going to have a good game and be on form then we are going to have a long day at the office."

No weaknesses behind the scrum

Pollard is in a South Africa team showing just one change for the one which beat USA 64-0 in their final pool match with wing JP Pietersen returning.

They are without original, but now retired, tournament captain Jean de Villiers and vice-captain Victor Matfield because of injury.

Wales have eight backs missing with injury, but Pollard does not expect to face a lesser challenge.

"Dan Biggar is playing great rugby, they've got Jamie Roberts and George North - and we all know the qualities of him - so their midfield is very very strong," said Pollard.

"There are no soft targets in that backline at all."

A midfield battle

Wales' direct style came in for some criticism following their 15-6 defeat by Australia in Twickenham last Saturday, especially when the Wallabies were reduced to 13-men for seven minutes.

Pollard does not expect the robust attacking tactics to change.

And centre Jan Serfontein reveals the Springboks are preparing to putting a lot of emphasis on making double hits on Wales' big runners.

Jan Serfontein helped South Africa U20 win the World Junior Championship in 2012

"We are aware of a couple of different things they can bring to the party. but I doubt it," said Pollard.

"I think they'll stick to what they are good at.

"The Australians defended unbelievably well.

"You could argue that they [Wales] just have to have a bit more composure, but at the end of the day I think it was just great defence.

"Wales is a very well coached side, you can see what they want to do and they stick to that plan no matter what and we saw the effectiveness of that against England at Twickenham."