Allianz Premiership club Harlequins have announced the signing of Springbok Women’s prop Babalwa Latsha, until the end of their 2023 season.
Latsha signed with the European club from DHL Western province, who compete in the SA Rugby Women’s Premier Division, with immediate effect.
The Khayelitsha native was the first South African Women’s player to sign a professional contract in 2020, since making her debut against Wales in 2018, she has also captained South Africa in nine of her 20 Tests so far.
Commenting on joining Harlequins, Babalwa Latsha said: “It’s incredible to be here really, I’m super excited to get stuck in. This seems to be a wonderful group of people, it’s just a great environment to thrive in as a rugby player and as a person.
“To be able to experience what it’s like to be on one of the biggest stages at The Stoop and at Twickenham is amazing, so I’m really excited to represent South African Women’s rugby but also to be in the space where I can do my thing.”
Head Coach Amy Turner said: “Babalwa is a great addition to the squad and brings a wealth of experience to the front row group. She’s a physical player who boasts a strong skill set ball in hand.
“Her international experience speaks for itself and to have represented South Africa in both 15s and 7s World Cups is testament to her versatility and skill. She’s a good character and will add a lot to this group both on and off the field, we’re excited to see what she can do in a Quins jersey.”
Latsha joined her new teammates earlier this week, and she plans to return to South Africa in June when the competition concludes.
The 28-year-old is her second stint in Europe, this is after she spent time playing in Spain for Eibar Femenino in 2020, before heading back to Mzansi due to the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Latsha the opportunity to go back to Europe was too great to miss out.
“I always had my mind on returning to Europe in order to play against and amongst the best players in the world,” said Latsha.
“I am always trying to improve as a player and this opportunity came just at the right time, so soon after the Rugby World Cup, where I could test myself against the best of France, Fiji and England.
Harlequins have won 7 of their games so far this season, in fourth place on the Premier 15’s log standings with 35 points from 11 games.
They will be in action on Sunday when they take on Sale Sharks Women at Heywood Road (4pm), in Manchester.
