Springbok Women face Ireland in WXV Global Series Test

The Springbok Women will face Ireland in the first of two WXV Global Series Tests at Athlone Stadium in Cape Town this Saturday. The match marks a significant rematch for the two nations, who last met 20 years ago during the 2006 Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Due to injuries to regular captain and tighthead prop Babalwa Latsha, as well as prop Nombuyekezo Mdliki, the South African squad features several changes. Sizophila Solontsi will take over the captaincy, and Xoliswa Khuzwayo will move to the No 3 jersey. The squad also sees the return of Sanelisiwe Charlie and the inclusion of Maria Tshiremba on the wing.

Player Yonela Ngxingolo is set to reach a milestone of 50 Test caps during the match. Co-head coach Franzel September noted that the team is focused on building depth ahead of the 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cup. Ireland enters the series ranked 5th in the world, while South Africa currently holds the 10th position in the World Rugby Rankings.