In the world of rugby, the path to international glory is often a long and winding road. Today, we delve into the stories of the 2022 South Africa 'A' team, a squad that included future World Cup winners and rising stars. This article will explore where these players are now and the twists and turns their careers have taken since that fateful year.
The Rise and Fall of a Rugby Dynasty
The South Africa 'A' team of 2022 was a squad brimming with potential. With players like Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Grant Williams, they were a force to be reckoned with. But what has become of these athletes since their time with the 'A' team? Let's find out.
Gianni Lombard: A Tale of Ups and Downs
Starting at fullback, Gianni Lombard was a regular for the Lions at the time of his selection for the 'A' team. However, his fortunes have taken a turn, and he has since fallen down the pecking order. Lombard is now eager to reignite his international ambitions with a move to the Sharks for the 2026/27 season. Personally, I think this move could be a fresh start for him, and with his experience, he might just find his way back into the national team.
Suleiman Hartzenberg: The Young Gun
At just 19 years old, Suleiman Hartzenberg got his big break with the SA 'A' team. Since then, he has become a regular for the Stormers, reaching an impressive 50 caps before his 22nd birthday. Hartzenberg is definitely one to watch, and I believe his youth and talent could see him don the Springbok jersey in the not-too-distant future.
Henco van Wyk: Injury Woes
Henco van Wyk was tipped for great things, but his Test debut has been delayed due to a series of untimely injuries. Despite this setback, he has been a standout performer for the Lions in the URC, catching the eye of the national team coaches. Erasmus has repeatedly mentioned van Wyk when discussing the team's injury woes, and it seems his recurring knee issues have kept him from realizing his full potential. However, with a two-year contract extension, van Wyk is set to remain with the Lions, and I hope he can overcome these injuries and finally make his Test debut.
Cornal Hendricks: A Tragic Loss
In May 2025, the rugby world was shocked by the tragic passing of former Springbok back Cornal Hendricks. Hendricks had a remarkable career, overcoming a serious heart condition to return to the sport and play a crucial role in the Bulls' revival under Jake White. His performances led many to believe he would return to the Springboks, but it never happened. Hendricks' story is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of making the most of every opportunity.
Leolin Zas: A Consistent Performer
Leolin Zas has been a consistent presence for the Stormers and Western Province, with a brief stint at the Sharks in between. He played a vital role in the Stormers' 2022 URC title victory and was named in the Dream Team of the Season. While Zas hasn't quite kicked on to higher honors, his consistency and reliability make him a valuable asset to any team.
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu: A Rising Star
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is a name that has been on everyone's lips. He made his Stormers debut in 2022 and went on to star for the Junior Boks. Feinberg-Mngomezulu made his Test debut in 2024 and had a stunning first year, featuring in several matches. Unfortunately, an injury cut his debut season short, but he returned with a bang in 2025, setting a new record for points scored by a South African in a Test match. With his contract extension with the Stormers, Feinberg-Mngomezulu is set to continue his rise and could be a key player for the Springboks in the coming years.
Grant Williams: World Cup Winner
Grant Williams is a success story. He had only one Springbok cap before joining the 'A' team but has since racked up an impressive 27 appearances, including being part of the 2023 Rugby World Cup-winning squad. Williams has become a key member of the Springboks, and his blistering pace off the bench has been a real asset. His move to a Japanese club for the 2026/27 season might just be the next step in his career progression.
Jean-Luc du Preez: A Tough Road
Jean-Luc du Preez has had a challenging journey to Springbok status. Despite excellent performances, he has only 14 caps, with injuries and stiff competition limiting his involvement. Du Preez has overcome setbacks, including a run of concussions, and has become a more regular member of the Springbok squad in recent years. However, he is set to miss the 2026 international season due to concussion troubles. I hope du Preez can overcome these health issues and continue his rugby career.
Elrigh Louw: A Comeback Story
Elrigh Louw debuted for the Springboks in 2022 and had a promising start, featuring in several matches. However, an injury in 2025 left him bedridden and threatened his career. Louw made a remarkable comeback, returning to the Bulls in November 2025. His resilience and determination are inspiring, and I believe he has a bright future ahead of him with the Springboks.
Marco van Staden: Overcoming Obstacles
Marco van Staden had already represented the Springboks nine times when he joined the 'A' team. Van Staden faced challenges, including concussions, but he overcame them and was selected for the World Cup squad. He has since developed his skills as a backup hooker and has become a more regular member of the Springbok squad. With 33 Test caps, van Staden is a valuable asset to the team.
Ruan Nortje: A Consistent Performer
Ruan Nortje made his Test debut in 2022 and has since become a regular starter for the Springboks. He is a leader at the Bulls and has helped the team reach four URC finals. Nortje's consistency and impact have earned him a move to Japan for the next season, where he will continue to showcase his talents.
Jason Jenkins: A Journeyman
Jason Jenkins made his Test debut in 2018 but has only one cap to his name. He has been included in alignment and training camps but hasn't added to his tally. Jenkins has had a nomadic career, moving from the Bulls to Munster and then to Leinster before returning to South Africa with the Sharks. His journey is a testament to his resilience and love for the game.
Thomas du Toit: A World Cup Winner
Thomas du Toit is a Rugby World Cup winner, having been part of the 2019 squad. He left the Sharks to join English club Bath, where he enjoyed immense success, winning a PREM Rugby title. Du Toit has remained a key part of the Springboks' plans, featuring in several Tests. His performances earned him a place in the 2025 World Rugby Dream Team, and he is now set to rejoin the Sharks.
Andre-Hugo Venter: Following in Father's Footsteps
Andre-Hugo Venter is the son of former Springboks flanker Andre Venter, and he has followed in his father's footsteps. Venter made his Test debut for South Africa in 2024 and has been included in the first training squad of the 2026 season. He has consistently performed for the Stormers and is now their first-choice player in his position.
Ntuthuko Mchunu: A Rising Star
Ntuthuko Mchunu made his Test debut in 2022 and has since won the Challenge Cup with the Sharks. He has earned two caps and has been included in the Boks' training squad for the upcoming season. Mchunu's impact in his first campaign with the Stormers has been notable, and I believe he has a bright future ahead of him.
Conclusion
The 2022 South Africa 'A' team was a squad full of potential, and it's fascinating to see where their careers have taken them. From rising stars to World Cup winners, each player has their own unique story. While some have faced setbacks and injuries, others have overcome obstacles to reach great heights. This article has explored their journeys, and I hope their stories inspire and entertain rugby fans around the world.
