Feinberg-Mngomezulu rejects fly-half rivalry as Springboks unite behind one another

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu has played down the idea of a direct battle between South Africa’s fly-halves, saying Handre Pollard and Manie Libbok are supporting him and one another for the benefit of the Springboks.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu will make his 20th Test appearance when South Africa face Argentina on Saturday, having returned from a lengthy injury lay-off.

The 23-year-old was asked whether there was added pressure on him to deliver as he re-established himself in the team, with Pollard and Libbok also competing for places ahead of the All Blacks meetings in the Greatest Rivalry series.

Before Feinberg-Mngomezulu could respond, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus explained that he did not view the situation as a contest between the three players.

“For us, it’s not like that. It’s not him competing with Handre and Manie,” said Erasmus.

“It’s Handre helping him this weekend to perform as well as he can. And Handre knows what Sacha needs to do at his age to get right. And that’s the way we operate.

“So all three of them will definitely be in the Greatest Rivalry squad and definitely will go to the World Cup if they keep form.”

The coach’s comments underline the depth South Africa have at fly-half, while also highlighting the importance of experienced players helping those returning from injury or still developing at Test level.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu said the relationship between the three fly-halves was based on mutual assistance rather than rivalry. He highlighted the role played by Pollard, a key figure for South Africa, as he prepares to earn another cap for the national side.

“I don’t think people understand how much we help each other,” Feinberg-Mngomezulu said.

“I mean, today Handre told me about the field, the dimensions of the field, how close the stands are to the pitch. Like, we really take good care of each other.

“And there’s massive amounts of respect. And also, one must never forget, even though I’m growing, and this is going to be my 20th cap on Saturday, I still have the utmost respect for Handre Pollard and what he’s done for the country and for this team.

“And not for a second will I see him in this competition. He’s my mentor. He’s my friend. And a great teammate to learn from.”

Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s start against Argentina gives him the opportunity to continue his progress after his injury absence, while Pollard’s guidance has been particularly valuable in the build-up to the match.

Erasmus has also made it clear that Pollard, Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Libbok remain part of the Springboks’ plans for the Greatest Rivalry squad and the World Cup, provided they maintain their form.

The South Africa camp therefore sees competition for the fly-half position as an opportunity for collective improvement, with the players expected to contribute to one another’s performances rather than compete in isolation.