DURBAN – Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu showed enough here in the second test at Kings Park on Saturday that he has both the skills and temperament to become the next Springbok superstar.
The young utility back played 78 minutes after replacing injured Willie le Roux in the nail-biting 24-25 loss in the second test against Ireland to draw the series 1-1.
The 22-year-old said it was a privilege to play for the Springboks and described the match as a proper Test match rugby experience.
“I just needed to do my job. It came in the second minute, which is more unusual, but it is it what it is,” said Feinberg-Mngomezulu on replacing a concussed Willie le Roux.
“It’s a great privilege to play for so long on a field with great players around me and a proper Test match rugby experience. I was extremely happy to be out there, but the result wasn’t what we wanted.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu can play fullback, centre, flyhalf and wing, and the usual debate of what his best position is – Damian Willemse and Pat Lambie experienced the same – has already started.
But his take on that reveals a maturity that extends beyond his young age.
“I just want to play rugby, man,” he said.
“That’s my job and I just want to contribute properly. Again, it’s a cliche, but I really want to contribute and put this team forward. When I get an opportunity to do that, even if it’s on the flank, I will do what I need to do.
“I’m playing with double champs right now and guys who have really taken this flag forward… it’s a privilege for me to play with them.
“Opportunities like this don’t come every day, so I’m just grateful to be surrounded by such elite athletes and competitors. That’s what I want going forward.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu said that while this was certainly a “step up” from what he had experienced thus far in his career, the experience would stand him in good stead.
“I really appreciate what the coaches are doing with easing me into this level of rugby. I’m hopefully on the way there soon. I’m working hard with the coaches and they’re putting full faith in me, and hopefully the results will come and I’ll be good for Test rugby soon,” he said.
“I think experience will help a lot of [the] weak areas of my game. Physical skills are something you can work on properly, but the verbal skills and understanding of the game are something that comes with time.
The Boks are in action again next Saturday, when they take on Portugal in Bloemfontein. Coach Rassie Erasmus that the team has already been selected.
The players who were in action against Ireland will remain part of the squad to provide opposition in training sessions during the week.
