DHL STADIUM – Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick has explained the decision to select Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu at flyhalf ahead of Manie Libbok for Saturday’s second Test against New Zealand at DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
The Springboks announced on Friday that Feinberg-Mngomezulu and wing Cheslin Kolbe would come into the starting lineup for the second encounter of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu retains the flyhalf role after starting last week’s opening Test at 10Bet Ellis Park, while Libbok will provide cover from the replacements bench. Handre Pollard was withdrawn from the matchday squad after picking up a niggle during training on Wednesday.
Stick says continuity played a major role in the decision to retain Feinberg-Mngomezulu rather than make another change at flyhalf.
“Remember, Sacha played last week – he started the match, we know and aware of what Manie could bring when he gets the opportunity,” said Stick.
“However, as coaches, we decided not to make too many movements – hence, we decided on Sacha since he played last week.”
The Springboks will enter Saturday’s Test looking to respond after suffering a 33-16 defeat to the All Blacks last week.
With Feinberg-Mngomezulu having already experienced the intensity of the opening Test, Stick believes keeping him in the starting lineup provides consistency while still giving the team the option of bringing Libbok into the contest from the bench.
The coaching staff also have confidence in both players’ familiarity with Cape Town, with Stick pointing out that the conditions should not present an issue for either flyhalf.
“We know he [Manie Libbok] has experience – we know what he can do when he gets the opportunity, and with what you are saying now, both of them played here – they know Cape Town conditions, so we don’t worry much about the playing conditions,” he said.
WATCH: @Springboks Assistant Coach Mzwandile Stick explains Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu selection as #Springboks prepare for @AllBlacks rematch in Cape Town on Saturday.
Plus isiXhosa lessons in the process😂😂 https://t.co/44sBJfCfXp pic.twitter.com/Be5Nm117zb
— Ayanda Frances Felem (@AyandaFelemZA) August 28, 2026
