Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will take flyhalf play to another level: Naas Botha
Naas Botha praises Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (pictured centre) as a transformative flyhalf for the Springboks, highlighting his impressive playmaking and leadership with the Stormers, while cautioning against unnecessary player comparisons. Picture: PAUL FAITH / AFP
Image: PAUL FAITH / AFP
Former Springbok flyhalf Naas Botha has sung the praises of Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu as the number10 continues to impress on the world stage.
The 23-year-old Springbok has taken on more responsibility with the Stormers this season, as he wore the captain’s armband for the first time in January.
His incredible playmaking ability at number 10, already earning him a spot as one of the world’s best players, is further enhanced by this addition.
Given Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s proven ability to win matches, barring injury, a long career in the Springbok jersey is predicted.
Botha Avoids Unnecessary Comparisons
Though Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has not confirmed it yet, Feinberg-Mngomezulu is already the first choice flyhalf for the world champions.
That’s especially significant considering he is competing with the experienced Handre Pollard, Jordan Hendrikse, Chris Smith, and Manie Libbok in the same position for the Boks.
For Botha, though, comparisons between players are somewhat irksome.
“You know, somebody the other day was trying to compare the one with the other one. And this one and who's the better one,” Botha told SportsBoom.co.za in an exclusive interview.
“And the question I'm trying to raise is why must there always be who's the better one?"
“It depends on the coach what he wants for a particular game. If he wants that style and he believes that guy suits what he wants out of that game and if that's Sacha, then that's it.”
The Rising Star of Feinberg-Mngomezulu
Feinberg-Mngomezulu is coming off a stellar international season for South Africa.
“I think at the moment Sacha is proving a point, and I think seriously he's going to take flyhalf play to a different level. He's seriously going to take it to a different level,” Botha added.
“What I like about the situation at the moment is that normally we see guys playing two, three, four great games. Then suddenly you must take a break. A sportsman plays with confidence. He's got the confidence."