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Eddie Hearn: Pollock deserves £1m salary

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Eddie Hearn, agent for England flanker Henry Pollock, believes the 21-year-old possesses "superstar quality" to revitalize rugby union. Hearn is advocating for Pollock to be paid in line with his commercial value, suggesting a £1 million-a-year contract, a significant increase from his current reported earnings of £150,000 from Northampton Saints plus an additional £150,000 from the Rugby Football Union.

Hearn emphasized that Pollock, a "flagship superstar," is not looking to leave Northampton but highlighted that his potential earnings in English rugby are not being realized. He compared Pollock's situation to that of a boxer earning more for a single night's fight, despite Pollock playing over 30 games a year and enduring intense physical demands. Hearn argued that rugby union is not tapping into its full potential, citing Pollock as an example of a player inspiring young fans.

Hearn also criticized the PREM Rugby salary cap of £6.4 million, which limits teams to one marquee player. He believes this cap hinders player earnings and overall sport growth, arguing it discourages investment and the creation of commercially successful clubs. Hearn plans to discuss these concerns with PREM Rugby, advocating for a structure that allows for more star players and greater financial investment to make the sport "hot again."