Damian Willemse could be the third-choice flyhalf for the Springboks should head coach Rassie Erasmus not decide to bring in players from outside the squad ahead of the new international season.
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Stormers flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s ankle injury has left the Springboks with a significant hole to fill in the No 10 jersey ahead of a demanding international season.
With reports confirming a serious ankle syndesmosis injury, the playmaker could be sidelined for more than three months, ruling him definitely out of the July Tests and potentially a part of the Greatest Rivalry series against the All Blacks later this year.
Following a standout season for the world champions last year, head coach Rassie Erasmus will hope that Feinberg-Mngomezulu is back sooner rather than later. He was earmarked to play a pivotal role this season, but the responsibility will now largely rest with established flyhalves Handré Pollard and Manie Libbok for most of the 2026 Tests.
If Erasmus decides to look beyond his established options, Lions pivot Chris Smith has certainly strengthened his case with another consistent United Rugby Championship (URC) campaign.
While Smith may not possess the natural flair and skill of Feinberg-Mngomezulu, his game management, goal-kicking accuracy and ability to control territory have made him one of the most reliable flyhalves in South African rugby.
It says a lot when former Bok star Morné Steyn sings your praises as a flyhalf. His experience and composure could make him an attractive squad addition.
However, the more likely solution could come from within the current Bok squad. Libbok and Pollard remain the obvious candidates, and depending on the blueprint the Springboks want to follow, especially against England, it could end up being a coin toss between the duo.
Also, utility back Damian Willemse offers valuable cover at this stage of the season. He has played extensively at flyhalf throughout his career, and his ability to switch between positions across the backline will give Erasmus that peace of mind if he decides not to add another pivot.
Then there is the wildcard option of teenager Vusi Moyo.
The Junior Springbok flyhalf has impressed with his game control, attacking instincts and maturity for the SA Under-20 side, while also making a memorable URC debut for the Sharks in May. Moyo appears destined for higher honours and could emerge as a genuine bolter if the Springboks decide to fast-track his development.
But, there could be a complication.
Calling Moyo into the senior national squad now would likely mean missing the upcoming World Rugby U20 Championship in Georgia, denying the Junior Boks one of their key playmakers. So, while it is unlikely that he will feature now, he remains a player who should probably be roped in as soon as possible to expose him to the Springbok environment.