Heiko Pohlmann

South African back-rower Heiko Pohlmann (born 16 January 2002) has emerged through the Lions' structures as an industrious option in the loose forwards. A flanker by trade, he is defined by his work rate — a willing tackler and breakdown competitor who looks to disrupt opposition ball and provide quick, clean possession for his own side. Still in his early twenties, Pohlmann fits the mould of the modern flanker: mobile enough to cover ground in defence yet strong over the ball, offering the Johannesburg-based franchise both physicality and stamina across eighty minutes. South African rugby has a deep tradition of producing hard-nosed forwards, and Pohlmann's game reflects that heritage in its emphasis on confrontation and persistence rather than flash. His contribution is felt most in the unglamorous facets of forward play, where his energy and tenacity make him a useful member of the back-row rotation. As he continues to develop physically and tactically against seasoned opposition in the United Rugby Championship and European competition, he is building toward a more established role and the consistency that turns a promising forward into a fixture in the matchday squad.