Sacha caps golden season with players’ award

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu has won the SA Players’ Player of the Year award.

The 23-year-old made the Springbok No 10 jersey his own in 2025, starting eight of his 11 Tests for the world champions.

He scored 37 points – including a hat-trick of tries – against Argentina at Kings Park in September to break Percy Montgomery’s Springbok record, and set a new record for the number of career tries scored by a Bok flyhalf (nine) despite having played just 19 Tests.

“There are a lot of awards to win these days, but this one is especially close to my heart because it’s voted for by my colleagues, the people whose respect matters most,” said Feinberg-Mngomezulu. “That’s why I probably enjoy this one more than any other. It’s a great feeling to be recognised by others in the same industry who truly understand what it takes.”

Other nominees for the award included Bok loosehead prop Ox Nche, hooker Malcolm Marx, flanker Pieter-Steph du Toit and fullback Damian Willemse.

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Meanwhile, Donavan Don was named the Sevens Players’ Player of the Year and Byrhandré Dolf the Women’s Players’ Player of the Year.

“The Players’ Player of the Year Awards are incredibly meaningful because they come directly from the players themselves,” said Isma-eel Dollie, general manager of rugby operations at MyPlayers.

“Being chosen by your peers is one of the greatest compliments any athlete can receive. It’s one thing to perform well, but it’s another to earn the respect of those who understand the hard work, pressure and sacrifice that go into every match.

“This year’s winners have shown exceptional leadership and influence throughout the season, and their recognition speaks to the high standards they set both on and off the field. We’re extremely proud of Sacha, Donavan and Byrhandré, and proud of what this award represents for South African rugby.”

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Photo: Anton Geyser/Gallo Images