What David Pocock does on his break from rugby

Most rugby fans would agree Wallabies loose-forward David Pocock is entitled to a well-deserved off-season holiday after he led the way for his side through their rugged World Cup campaign.

But the 27-year-old has shunned the usual exotic holiday destinations and instead embarked on a road trip through South Africa, Botswana and his native Zimbabwe, where he helped a group of men who protect endangered rhinoceroses from poachers.

Appearing in peak physical condition, Pocock has shared pictures and video of his trip, including pictures of his time spent with the group known as the Malilangwe scouts.

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Loved spending some time with the men at the forefront of the effort to protect rhino. Committed, passionate and enjoying what they do (most of the time) - inspiring to see their commitment in the face of real danger and the challenges of conservation.

A post shared by デービッド ポーコック ║ラグビー │自然│会話 (@davidpocock) on Dec 1, 2015 at 2:01pm PST

"Loved spending some time with the men at the forefront of the effort to protect rhino," Pocock posted on Instagram.

"Committed, passionate and enjoying what they do (most of the time) - inspiring to see their commitment in the face of real danger and the challenges of conservation."

One picture shows the former Australian test captain carrying another man on his back, a task Pocock took to with typical enthusiasm.

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Thanks to the Malilangwe scouts for inviting me to join the very solid fitness and weights session they put their new recruits through this morning. Really impressed by their work ethic and fitness. Have had a brilliant stay at @singita_ Pamushana Lodge. A special part of the world.

A post shared by デービッド ポーコック ║ラグビー │自然│会話 (@davidpocock) on Nov 29, 2015 at 12:28pm PST

"Thanks to the Malilangwe scouts for inviting me to join the very solid fitness and weights session they put their new recruits through this morning," he wrote. "Really impressed by their work ethic and fitness."

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An incredible week in the Zimbabwean lowveld tracking rhino on foot. The wind was perfect and we were able to get a closer look at a white rhino and her calf. Very inspiring to see all the hard work being done to protect these magnificent creatures. #zimbabwe #rhino #canon

A post shared by デービッド ポーコック ║ラグビー │自然│会話 (@davidpocock) on Dec 1, 2015 at 2:31am PST

Zimbabwe's turbulent political climate saw Pocock's family flee to South Africa before moving to Australia in 2002.

In 2011 he revealed how his youthful experiences in his homeland during Robert Mugabe's reign challenged his faith in humanity and saw him question Christianity, morality and fate.

Unlike most of his rugby peers, Pocock is frequently outspoken on many global issues and has spoken out against homophobia, racism and environmental matters.