This Sunday, Babalwa Latsha will make history as she captains the Springbok Women for the first time at a Women’s Rugby World Cup. As they prepare to take on France in their Pool D decider at Franklin’s Gardens, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the South African side, who have already secured their place in the knockout stages.
Latsha, South Africa’s most capped prop, will lead a transformed squad, incorporating several new faces into the starting line-up. Coach Swys de Bruin has made several strategic adjustments following last weekend’s resounding victory over Italy in York. Among these changes, Mary Zulu, positioned at fly-half, and Anathi Qolo, making her debut at lock, will be stepping onto the World Cup stage for the first time as part of the starting XV.
In the forwards, Qolo joins Vainah Ubisi in the second row, while the bench welcomes even more debutants, including Luchell Hanekom (hooker), Xoliswa Khuzwayo (prop), Nomsa Mokwai (lock), and Faith Tshauke (loose forward). The backline also sees significant reshuffling, with only Chumisa Qawe continuing in the same role as last week. Byrhandré Dolf will shift to fullback, while Nadine Roos takes over at scrum-half. Veteran Tayla Kinsey, poised to earn her 41st cap, will add experience from the bench, marking her third Rugby World Cup campaign.
As they gear up for the formidable French side, de Bruin revealed the strategy behind the changes. “We wanted every player to get an opportunity by the end of the pool stage, so everyone is prepared and in contention for the quarter-final,” he said, emphasising the team’s commitment to inclusivity and preparedness. Resting key players like Nolusindiso Booi, Danelle Lochner, Sanelisiwe Charlie, and Libbie Janse van Rensburg was also guided by medical advice to manage workloads effectively.
Looking ahead to the encounter with France, known for their dynamic attacking style, de Bruin expressed confidence in his side’s ability to apply pressure: “We identified chances in the scrums and with a kicking strategy that may disrupt their structure. It’s a fantastic opportunity for our team to be tested against one of the world’s best.”
The Springbok Women will be looking to build on their momentum, and with a blend of experience and fresh talent, they are poised to make an impactful statement in this pivotal match-up. The match promises not only to be a thrilling contest but also a significant moment in the careers of many players stepping into the international spotlight.