OPINION: Back with a bang, rugby magician Sacha proves his time is now

Just in case rugby fans had forgotten what a fantastic talent Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is, he decided to remind South Africa (and the rest of the rugby-watching world) what a wonderful rugby player he is with a super performance for the Stormers on Saturday.

Injuries have hampered the rise of the No 10 in recent times, but now that he is back to full fitness he is sure to be someone everyone will keep an eye on in the remainder of this season’s United Rugby Championship and then the Test season.

The 23-year-old burst on to the international scene in stunning fashion for the Springboks last year, but then an unfortunate injury prevented him from completing the year at Test level.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu though seems to be one of those rare sporting talents that even after a prolonged time away from the game is able to slot right back in and deliver the goods like he did before the injury.

Hat-trick hero

On Saturday he was back to his best, scoring three outstanding tries and making a ridiculous offload for a team-mate to score, to help the Stormers record an important win against Irish side Connacht.

It’s not just that Feinberg-Mngomezulu knows how to score tries, it’s his reading of the game, his pace, his stepping, his kicking (into space) and his distribution that set him apart. Yes, he makes mistakes – all players do – but when you can do what he did on Saturday he’s a player you want in your team every weekend.

How fortunate the Springboks are with Feinberg-Mngomezulu about to enter the prime of his career, and then still have Manie Libbok to pick, and let’s not forget what a great attacking player he is. Handre Pollard is also still around, and he’s sure to be in the frame to go to the 2027 World Cup.

Then there’s Jordan Hendrikse of the Sharks and Siya Masuku, who’s still hanging around waiting for more love from those in Bok circles, while Damian Willemse could wear the Bok No 10 jersey any time, too.

Right now though it looks like it’s Sacha’s time … and why not if you’re a modern-day rugby magician?