South African rugby’s next generation just took centre stage with the 2025 awards nominees revealed. Five young stars headline the Young Player of the Year shortlist, underlining remarkable depth in the Springbok pipeline. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Ethan Hooker, Canan Moodie, Haashim Pead and Zachary Porthen earned deserved recognition.
SA Rugby confirmed the quintet after another thrilling season across Tests, United Rugby Championship and domestic competitions. They join a wider awards roster where Malcolm Marx and Pieter-Steph du Toit chase the main men’s gong. Yet the Young Player category often signals tomorrow’s superstars, making this list especially intriguing for supporters.
Sacha leads a star-studded cast
Utility back Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu stands out as favourite, already influencing games for Stormers and Springboks. His kicking range, playmaking vision and big-match temperament make him a genuine dual-threat in any backline.
Hooker and Moodie bring power and pace
Ethan Hooker has exploded for the Sharks, carrying hard, defending relentlessly and punching holes through organised defensive systems.
Canan Moodie continues his rapid rise, showcasing aerial dominance, searing pace and composure beyond his years for Bulls.
Together they symbolise a fearless attacking mindset, turning half-chances into momentum swings on local and international stages.
Pead and Porthen power the next Bok scrum
Up front, Haashim Pead and Zachary Porthen underline why South Africa never stops producing world-class forwards. Pead’s mobility and aggression around the park complement Porthen’s set-piece nous and raw scrummaging strength. Their emergence keeps pressure on established Springbok front-rowers, crucial for maintaining standards in demanding global competitions.
Importantly, this shortlist shows opportunities are genuinely spread, from back-three excitement to bruising midfielders and dynamic tight-five prospects. Coaches will welcome the healthy competition, knowing driven youngsters push standards at training and in matchday squads.
As voting unfolds, fans will debate favourites, yet all five already embody the future identity of Springbok rugby.
Whoever claims the award, South Africa’s rugby horizon looks brilliantly bright, and that might be the biggest victory.
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The post The future: SA Rugby Young Player of the Year Nominees Revealed appeared first on iHarare News.
