Former Springbok fullback Thinus Delport says flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is no longer just playing what’s in front of him.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu was ranked No 1 in RugbyPass‘ Top 100 players for 2025, which reflects a season in which the 23-year-old made the Springbok No 10 jersey his own and played a central role in another Castle Rugby Championship title.
But Delport believes the real story lies in how rounded his game has become.
“He’s maturing into the complete player,” he said. “He’s lethal on attack and brave in defence. There are still some minor improvements to be made in his kicking game, but ultimately he’s spearheading the dominant evolution of the Springboks.”
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Delport pointed to Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s ability to influence matches beyond just flair moments.
“He’s not just playing what’s in front of him anymore. He’s controlling games, making good decisions under pressure and backing it up physically. That’s what separates talented players from Test match leaders.”
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Delport said South Africa’s strong representation near the top of the list was no surprise, given the consistency and physical edge of the Springbok pack.
“Pieter-Steph du Toit [ranked No 3] has been a high performer week in and week out,” Delport said. “His work rate is unbelievable. He’s a tackle machine and he still carries hard over the gain line.”
“Malcolm Marx [ranked No 4] has had an immense year. He’s been massive at the breakdown, carries strongly and sets the tone physically. For me, he’s been the standout hooker this season.
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“Whenever RG Snyman [ranked No 6] touches the ball, something happens. His offloads keep the attack alive and his work in the lineout – both on our ball and opposition ball – is huge.
“Thomas du Toit [ranked No 7] has added serious bulk and power to the Springbok scrum and maul. Together with Wilco Louw, he’s become a nightmare for looseheads.
“Eben Etzebeth [ranked No 9] is still that ever-present physical force and a real leader. For such a big man, his mobility and speed are incredible, and he always offers an attacking threat.”
Other Springboks in the Top 100 include loosehead prop, Ox Nche (11th),winger Cheslin Kolbe (13th), utility back Damien Willemse (30th), Damien de Allende (32nd), Siya Kolisi (49th), centre Jesse Kriel (53rd), No 8 Jasper Weise (57th), Cobus Reinach (66th), Kurt-Lee Arendse (71st) and Wilco Louw (88th).
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