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 featured a mix of established and emerging talent, with some players going on to become World Cup winners and others still striving for international recognition. Here's a breakdown of where these players stand today:
15 Gianni Lombard: After a strong start with the Lions, Gianni Lombard has faced challenges in securing a regular spot. He will join the Sharks for the 2026/27 season, aiming to rekindle his international ambitions.
14 Suleiman Hartzenberg: Suleiman Hartzenberg, who made his SA ‘A’ debut at 19, has become a regular for the Stormers. He has earned 50 caps for the Cape-based side and remains on the national team's radar.
13 Henco van Wyk: Henco van Wyk's Test debut was delayed due to injuries, but he continues to shine for the Lions in the URC. His performances have caught the eye of national team coaches, and he is expected to be a key player for the Lions in the 2026/27 season.
12 Cornal Hendricks: Tragically, Cornal Hendricks passed away in May 2025 at the age of 37 due to a heart attack. He was a former Springbok back, having played 12 Tests and represented the South Africa Sevens team.
11 Leolin Zas: Leolin Zas, a key player in the Stormers' 2022 URC title victory, continues to represent the Stormers and Western Province. He hasn't made significant strides towards higher honors, but his role remains crucial for the Stormers.
10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu made a strong international debut in 2024, breaking records and earning a nomination for Breakthrough Player of the Year. He signed a contract extension with the Stormers, solidifying his place in the team until at least the 2028/29 season.
9 Grant Williams: Grant Williams, a speedy number nine, has become a key member of the Springboks team since the 2023 Rugby World Cup victory. He has thrived in Tony Brown's attacking structures and is a regular off the bench.
8 Jean-Luc du Preez: Jean-Luc du Preez, who has faced challenges with injuries and stiff competition, has struggled to secure Springboks caps. He is set to miss the 2026 international season due to concussion issues.
7 Elrigh Louw: Elrigh Louw, who made his Test debut in 2022, faced a career-threatening injury in 2025. He has been invited to Springbok alignment camps and is expected to join the squad after the Bulls' United Rugby Championship Final.
6 Marco van Staden: Marco van Staden, a back-rower, has overcome severe concussions and is a regular member of the Springbok matchday 23s. He has 33 Test caps and continues to develop his skills as a backup hooker.
5 Ruan Nortje: Ruan Nortje, a consistent performer for the Bulls, has become a regular starter for the Springboks in 2025. He will join an unnamed Japanese club next season.
4 Jason Jenkins: Jason Jenkins, who made his Test debut in 2018, has been a solid performer for Munster and Leinster. He will rejoin the Sharks ahead of the new season.
3 Thomas du Toit: Thomas du Toit, a Rugby World Cup winner, has enjoyed success with Bath in England. He will return to the Sharks for the 2026/27 season.
2 Andre-Hugo Venter: Andre-Hugo Venter, the son of a former Springboks flanker, made his Test debut in 2024. He is a consistent performer for the Stormers and has been included in the first training squad of the year.
1 Ntuthuko Mchunu: Ntuthuko Mchunu, who made his debut against Wales, won the Challenge Cup with the Sharks in 2024. He has signed with the Stormers and has been impactful in the URC.
16 JJ Kotze: JJ Kotze has been a consistent performer for the Stormers and has been included in the Springboks squad for the double header in PE, hoping to make his Test debut.
17 Simphiwe Matanzima: Simphiwe Matanzima, who helped the Bulls reach URC finals, made the move to the Sharks. His first season with the coastal side was cut short due to injury.
18 Mornay Smith: Mornay Smith, a powerful scrummager, remains a solid performer for the Bulls as a backup to other talented props.
19 Dan du Preez: Dan du Preez, who has faced injury setbacks, has been a key cog in the Sale Sharks' squad. He will make the switch to Bath next season.
20 Sikhumbuzo Notshe: Sikhumbuzo Notshe, who earned six Test caps in 2018, left the Sharks for Montauban in 2024. He helped the club gain promotion to the Top 14 but faced relegation challenges.
21 Phepsi Buthelezi: Phepsi Buthelezi, a product of Durban High School, re-signed with the Sharks and made his Springboks Test debut against Portugal. He has a bright future ahead.
22 Sanele Nohamba: Sanele Nohamba, a URC Player of the Season, left the Lions to join the Shizuoka Blue Revs. His future remains uncertain.
23 Johan Goosen: Johan Goosen, who represented the Bulls until 2024/25, is reportedly considering retirement and a coaching role in the Bulls' youth structures.
