Given his cricketing pedigree, it is not surprising that Pollock has earned a reputation as one of the best all-rounders in the world.
Son of former South African fast bowler Peter and nephew of left-handed great Graeme Pollock, the national skipper hopes to become the first man to lead his country to World Cup victory.
Pollock made his international debut in 1995/96 and has since proved indispensible as both a batsman and a bowler.
His graceful skill with a bat is matched with an amazing ability to consistently bowl the ball painfully close to the stumps, giving very little away in line and length.
The KwaZulu-Natal player averages around 23 with the ball and has taken more than 10 four-wicket hauls in his one-day international career, including four for 32 against Australia last March.
Since having the captaincy thrust upon him in April 2000, the three-time national player of the year has risen to the leadership challenge in style, instilling new confidence and success in the side.