Stormers out-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu to miss Leinster clash

Feinberg-Mngomezulu could also miss a number of South Africa Test games this summer

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu injured his ankle during the Stormers' URC quarter-final victory over Cardiff. Pic: ©INPHO/Steve Haag Sports/EJ Langner

Stormers out-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will miss his club's United Rugby Championship semi-final against Leinster at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

The 24-year-old, one of the most exciting players in the game, hurt his ankle scoring a try in Saturday’s 44-21 home victory ​over Cardiff in the URC quarter-final and will ​not travel to Dublin. 

Stormers forwards coach Rito Hlungwani confirmed the injury on Monday.

“As far as I know it is a syndesmosis injury, so he is going to be out for a while, but for how long I am not sure,” said Hlungwani.

In a post on Instagram, late on Sunday, Feinberg-Mngomezulu said: “Frustrated, irritated, and questioning why me? First time injured in ​14 months. 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. 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!!," he ​posted.

Jurie Mathee, who started for the Stormers in their 35-0 victory over Leinster at the beginning of the season, will step up in Feinberg-Mngomezulu's absence.

“If you look at that first URC game against Leinster,” said Hlungwani, "it will be a different team that we are playing now in terms of personnel, but Jurie started then and it really worked out well for us. So Jurie is someone who is ready to step in.

“He has never really been out of the team, he has played tough games for us, so we are quite confident that he will come in and do his thing.

“In terms of how we play, we let the players play to their strengths, so Jurie fits in nicely. If it changes anything, then great, because he will be playing to his strengths. But there will be no particular change in plans in how we play."

Feinberg-Mngomezulu also looks set to miss the first three rounds of the inaugural ​Nations Championship, in which the Springboks host England, Scotland, ‌and Wales.

If Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s ⁠absence extends past July's Tests, he could miss a four-match Test ⁠series against the All Blacks in August and September.