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 players who showcased their talent and potential, some of whom have since gone on to become World Cup winners. Here's a breakdown of where these players stand today, with a focus on their recent achievements and future prospects.
- Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu:
Feinberg-Mngomezulu, a standout player from the 2022 SA ‘A’ team, has become a rising star in international rugby. He made his Test debut in 2024, showcasing his talent and earning a nomination for the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year. His performance against Argentina in 2025 was particularly impressive, setting a new record for the most points scored by a South African in a Test match. With nine tries in 19 Test appearances, he's already the top-try-scoring Springbok fly-half of all time. Feinberg-Mngomezulu has signed a contract extension with the Stormers, ensuring his presence in the team until at least the end of the 2028/29 season.
- Grant Williams:
Williams, a speedy number nine, has become a key member of the Springboks team. He was part of the 2023 Rugby World Cup-winning squad and has since racked up 27 further appearances for the Springboks. His blistering pace and attacking structures make him a valuable asset off the bench. Williams has signed with an unnamed Japanese club ahead of the 2026/27 Japan Rugby League One season.
- Thomas du Toit:
Du Toit, a ‘swing prop’, has enjoyed immense success with Bath Rugby in England. He won the PREM Rugby title with Bath, their first since 1996. Du Toit's performances in 2024 earned him a place in the 2025 World Rugby Dream Team. He will rejoin the Sharks ahead of the new season.
- Andre-Hugo Venter:
Venter, the son of former Springboks flanker Andre Venter, made his Test debut for South Africa in 2024. He has consistently performed for the Stormers and is the side's first-choice player in his position. Venter is yet to add to his Test cap tally but has been included in the first training squad of the year.
- Ntuthuko Mchunu:
Mchunu, a debutant from the clash against Wales, won the Challenge Cup with the Sharks in 2024. He earned two caps later that year and had an impactful first campaign in the Mother City, scoring six tries in the URC. Mchunu has been included in the Boks’ training squad for the upcoming season.
- Phepsi Buthelezi:
Buthelezi, a back-rower, scored a stunning try to steer the Sharks to Challenge Cup glory in 2024. He made his Springboks Test debut against Portugal a week later. Buthelezi has re-signed with the Sharks through to the end of the 2028/29 season.
- Sanele Nohamba:
Nohamba, a player who shone for the Lions, left the Joburg side to join the Shizuoka Blue Revs. He was named among the Blue Revs’ departees at the end of the 2025/26 season and has been linked with a return to the Sharks.
- Elrigh Louw:
Louw, who debuted for the Springboks in 2022, had a challenging 2025 after damaging ligaments in his left knee and breaking his leg. He made a return for the Bulls in November 2025 and has been invited to Springbok alignment camps this year.
- Ruan Nortje:
Nortje, a workhorse Bulls lock, became a regular starter for the Springboks in 2025 after answering the team's SOS in 2024. He has signed with an undisclosed Japanese team for the next season.
- Jean-Luc du Preez:
Du Preez, a back-rower, has faced challenges with concussions and injuries. He was recalled to the Springboks squad in 2025 but missed the July Tests and Rugby Championship matches due to injury and illness. Du Preez is set to miss the 2026 international season due to concussion troubles.
- Marco van Staden:
Van Staden, a back-rower, has overcome severe concussions and has become a more regular member of Springbok matchday 23s. He was used as a back-up hooker for the Boks at the 2023 Rugby World Cup and has continued to develop his skills in the role.
- Suleiman Hartzenberg:
Hartzenberg, a 19-year-old when he got his shot for the SA ‘A’ team, has attended multiple alignment camps and remains on the coaching team’s radar. He has become a regular for the Stormers and earned his 50th cap for the Cape-based side last year.
- Henco van Wyk:
Van Wyk, tipped to make the step up to the Springboks squad, has been a standout performer for the Lions in the URC. He signed a two-year contract extension with the Lions in 2025 and is set to remain at the Jo’burg club through to the end of the 2026/27 season.
- Gianni Lombard:
Lombard, a regular starter for the Lions, has fallen down the pecking order in Johannesburg. He will make the move to the Sharks ahead of the 2026/27 season, eager to rekindle his international ambitions.
- Cornal Hendricks:
Hendricks, a former Springbok back, sadly passed away in May 2025 after suffering a heart attack at the age of 37. He represented the Boland Cavaliers, Cheetahs, and Bulls, with his final match coming against Northampton Saints in the Champions Cup quarter-finals.
In summary, the 2022 South Africa ‘A’ team has produced a remarkable array of players who have gone on to achieve success at the highest level. Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Williams, Du Toit, Venter, Mchunu, Buthelezi, Louw, Nortje, Hartzenberg, Van Wyk, and Lombard are all making their mark in international rugby, while Hendricks' tragic passing serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
