Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu has broken his silence after sustaining what John Dobson described as a 'pretty serious' ankle injury during the Stormers' 44-21 URC win over Cardiff at DHL Stadium on Saturday, admitting he is 'frustrated' and 'irritated' but vowing a determined comeback.
The injury occurred in the 52nd minute when Feinberg-Mngomezulu was ankle-tapped as he scored the Stormers' fourth try, and he was seen on crutches afterwards. Scans are still pending.
"Frustrated, irritated and questioning why me?" he wrote on Instagram. "Sometimes the game reminds you that you're not 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. Now, BACK TO WORK! Next job, crystal clear vision and mindset. See you soon!!"
Dobson was candid about the severity, though cautious ahead of scan results. "It looks like a proper ankle injury. We haven't confirmed anything yet, but it's concerning. We've lost probably the most in-form young player in world rugby the week before a semi-final, which is far from ideal."
Jurie Matthee replaced Feinberg-Mngomezulu and handled the final 30 minutes impressively, and is now set to start at ten for the semi-final against Leinster as the Stormers chase a first URC final appearance since 2023.
Beyond the immediate semi-final, the injury carries Springbok implications. South Africa's Nations Championship campaign opens next month, with Tests against England, Scotland and Wales scheduled before the four-Test series against the All Blacks in August and September.