Where are they now? The 2022 South Africa ‘A’ team that included Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and two future World Cup winners
The 2022 South Africa ‘A’ team was a group of talented players who, at the time, were on the fringes of the Springboks squad. Fast forward to the present, and some of these players have not only made it to the international stage but have also become integral parts of the Springboks' success. This article takes a closer look at where these players are now, with a particular focus on their recent achievements and future prospects.
One player who has stood out is Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. The young fly-half made his Stormers debut in June 2022 and quickly became a standout performer. His impressive form led to his selection in the Springboks' training squad for the end-of-year tour, and he made his Test debut off the bench against Wales in 2024. Feinberg-Mngomezulu's debut season was cut short due to an injury, but he did enough to earn a nomination for the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year. In 2025, he set a new record for the most points scored by a South African in a Test match, breaking Percy Montgomery's record. Feinberg-Mngomezulu's contract extension with the Stormers ensures his continued development and his potential to become a key player for the Springboks in the years to come.
Another standout performer from the 2022 team is Grant Williams. The speedy number nine had already earned a cap for the Springboks against Wales before turning out for South Africa ‘A’. Since then, he has become a key member of the Springboks team, featuring in the 2023 Rugby World Cup-winning squad. Williams' blistering pace and attacking structures have made him a real weapon off the bench, and he has thrived under Tony Brown's guidance. His move to an unnamed Japanese club for the 2026/27 season will be a significant step in his career, allowing him to continue developing his skills and gaining international experience.
The 2022 team also featured players who have had to overcome setbacks to reach the international stage. Henco van Wyk, for instance, was tipped to make the step up to the Springboks squad but suffered untimely injuries. Despite these setbacks, he has continued to perform well for the Lions in the URC and has caught the eye of the national team coaches. Van Wyk's resilience and determination to overcome his injuries are a testament to his character and his potential to become a key player for the Springboks.
In addition to Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Williams, the 2022 team included other players who have made significant strides in their careers. Thomas du Toit, for instance, was the only Rugby World Cup-winner in the squad and has since become a regular feature for the Springboks. His performances in 2025 earned him a place in the World Rugby Dream Team, and his move to the Sharks ahead of the new season will allow him to continue developing his skills and contributing to the team's success.
The 2022 South Africa ‘A’ team was a group of talented players who have since gone on to achieve great things. From Feinberg-Mngomezulu's record-breaking performances to Williams' World Cup success and van Wyk's resilience, these players have shown that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. As they continue to develop their skills and gain international experience, they will undoubtedly become even more integral to the Springboks' future success.
