Nolusindiso Booi said she’s ready to lead the Springbok Women to the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup which kicks off in England next week.
The 40-year-old Eastern Cape native was named to captain the team by head coach Swys de Bruin when he announced the squad in Johannesburg.
Booi, who has captained the side in 23 tests, will lead a strong 32-squad which features 19 players who represented the country in the previous global showpiece in New Zealand in 2022 where the team finished in 12th place.
She will be assisted by Babalwa Latsha who captained the team 14 Test matches, including in the recent Black Ferns XV series.
Amongst the 19 forwards, eight will be experiencing a Women’s Rugby World Cup for the first time.
Anathi Qolo, Luchell Hanekom, Xoliswa Khuzwayo, Nombuyekezo Mdliki, Danelle Lochner, Vainah Ubisi, and Faith Tshauke, will make their debut at the Rugby World Cup.
Maceala Samboya, Ayanda Malinga, Mary Zulu and Byrhandré Dolf will also make their debuts in the backline.
Coach Swys de Bruin said all the 32 selected players, featured in the team’s preparations, against some of the World Cup-bound teams.
“We used 49 players during the season where we played six Test matches and four international friendlies, and I know we got the balance right.
“There will always be unfortunate players not selected, but as a coaching staff we are happy that we got the group we wanted,” said De Bruin.
In addition, the coach said he is looking forward to experimenting with the team selected.
“I believe that will push us towards the play-offs as we have so many options for each opponent, and that will boost our abilities.
“This selection is a culmination of hard work and sacrifice for the players, and I want to congratulate them.
“We all know the journeys each one travelled and for most, it was not easy,” remarked De Bruin.
The team will depart for England on Thursday, and is in Pool D alongside Brazil, Italy, and France.
