Stormers flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is hugged by fullback Damian Willemse following the URC quarter-final against Cardiff in which the No 10 picked up a serious ankle injury.
Image: BackpagePix
Stormers and Springbok flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is facing a long spell on the sidelines after suffering an ankle injury, with the prodigious playmaker admitting he is "frustrated" and questioning "why me?" as he begins another rehabilitation battle.
The major setback ends a 14-month injury-free run for one of South African rugby's brightest talents and casts uncertainty over his availability for the remainder of the season. But while the injury has left him disappointed, Feinberg-Mngomezulu has already shifted his focus to the challenge ahead, vowing to return “hungry, determined and focused.”
The Springboks are set to start their international season in a couple of weeks, but he will miss the match against the Barbarians (on 20 June) and the Nations Championship Tests against England on 4 July, Scotland (11 July), and Wales on 18 July at least.
He hobbled off the field in the 53rd minute of the United Rugby Championship (URC) quarter-final against Cardiff after scoring a crucial try in the 44-21 victory. In the act of crossing the line, the flyhalf was tackled and his ankle twisted, with the picture not looking great.
Stormers director of rugby John Dobson confirmed it was a serious injury, with scans confirming an ankle syndesmosis. It could take three to six months to heal.
Despite the disappointment, Feinberg-Mngomezulu struck a determined tone in a message shared with followers on Instagram.
“Usually, I post caption-less carousels. This time I’ll say it how it is. Frustrated, irritated and questioning why me?” he wrote.
The 24-year-old admitted that the injury served as a reminder that no athlete is invincible.
“Another injury, another chance to come back hungry, determined and focused. I’ve got a job to do, get back and get back better than I left,” he added.
Rather than dwelling on the setback, Feinberg-Mngomezulu made it clear his focus is already on recovery and returning stronger than before.
“I’m not one to dwell, but I’ll have a little vent! Now… BACK TO WORK! Next job, crystal clear vision and mindset. See you soon!!”
His positive outlook will encourage fans of the Springboks and Stormers alike as he begins what could be a long road back.