‘Crazy’: Ex Springbok player recounts bizarre experience within the squad
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu has described his experiences with the Springboks as “crazy” and “insane” after making his international debut for the world champions just over a month ago.
The 22-year-old utility back made his Test bow when he came on as a second-half replacement for South Africa in their win over Wales at Twickenham last month.
Played in all the Springboks’ Tests in 2024
He has been involved in all of the Springboks‘ Tests so far this year, after also making cameos in the two games against Ireland – in Pretoria and Durban – and in the historic Test against Portugal in Bloemfontein.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who has taken like a duck to water to international rugby, revealed how motivated he was to get onto the field for his Springboks debut and the build-up to that big occasion.
“That Monday is when it usually happens (when he found out he was in the matchday 23),” he told Heart FM’s Super Saturday Show. “You kind of get a feel for where you’re going to play and then the whole week these coaches prime you and get you mentally ready, and physically ready, and those conversations always take part early in the week.
“Therefore, by the time Thursday, Friday, and Saturday arrive—also known as your downtime or short weekend—rugby is the last thing on your mind. Instead, you are resting and allowing your body to heal, and by Saturday, you are refreshed and prepared to go.”
Many rugby players experience anxiety before a game, particularly those making their Test debuts. However, the Stormers star reported that he felt rather composed prior to playing Wales.
“I am currently reading Tim Grover’s book Relentless, which talks about athletes entering the zone and navigating it, and I have to admit that the first game was the most in the zone I think I have ever felt,” Feinberg-Mngomezulu remarked.
Because that is everything, I am sure the other debutants felt the same way! At that point, it was either fight or flight, so you would think you would feel anxious, but instead, I felt at ease and prepared to perform.
You sort of ignore the throng and everything else. You are simply in this state, similar to what I described, and yes, as I mentioned before, it was an incredible experience.
The prodigious Springbok revealed, nevertheless, that he did not really remember his time on the bench that day at Twickenham because things moved so quickly.
It is absurd! The funny thing about sitting on the bench is that you can not totally immerse yourself in the game because you do not want to burn out by being too concentrated toward the conclusion of the game, said the former South Africa U20 captain. “It happened so fast, dude, and you are sitting there,” he remarked.
“So, it is one thing to mentally turn on right away and receive a pat on the back to go on the field, but coach Rassie (Erasmus) is someone you want to receive a pat on the back from to go on the field.”
Shone against Wales
Feinberg-Mngomezulu made his mark on the game not long after entering the field against Wales by converting a huge penalty kick from roughly 53 meters out.
When he entered the fray and spoke with several of the experienced Bok players about the penalty try, he made it clear that he was feeling confident.
In reality, I turned to face Bongi (Mbonambi) and asked if I might kindly have the ball. Bongi then exclaimed, “Bro, I am not the captain!” Talk to du Toit, Pieter-Steph.
“I knew right away that I wanted that kick. The scoreboard also required it. It was pressure from the scoreboard. Since we had an 11-point lead, that kick would put us at a comfortable two converted tries (up). Yes, I had to beg Pieter-Steph for the ball, but I was incredibly lucky that he trusted me.
The guy you know, who I have not played with, trusted me, gave me the ball, and told me to kick it. The rest of the team did the same, backing the call, which is also amazing.
For some, a guy making his debut can be a bit of a risky move at times. However, everyone kind of accepted the circumstances and worked with me to achieve the greatest outcome.
