The Springbok Women are no longer just outsiders in the global rugby conversation; they are becoming part of the story. From their first Test in 2004 to a historic Rugby World Cup quarter-final in 2025, this is a team that has clawed its way into the spotlight with resilience, pride, and a growing belief that they belong on the big stage.
A JOURNEY OF FIRSTS
When the Springbok Women first ran out against Wales in 2004, very few could have imagined that two decades later, they’d be making history in a Rugby World Cup quarter final. Their debut ended in a narrow 8-5 loss, but that was only the start of a stop-start journey that has since turned into steady progress. Their World Cup story began in 2006. Since then, they have had highs, like finishing 10th in both 2010 and 2014, and some painful lows, including a crushing 101-0 defeat to England back in 2005. But each setback became a stepping stone. The wins at the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in 2019, 2023, and 2024 showed that the Bok Women are no longer passengers in the women’s game; they are contenders.
BREAKING NEW GROUND IN 2025
This year, the Springbok Women reached uncharted territory, their first Rugby World Cup quarter final. Their 29-24 win against Italy was more than just a result; it was a statement. It was the first time they’d beaten Italy, a breakthrough victory that signaled a new era.
That moment belongs to every player who has pulled on the green and gold, and every young girl in South Africa who now knows this journey is possible.
TEAM NEWS: LATSHA TO LEAD, DEBUTS FOR ZULU AND QOLO
Momentum continues to build as the Boks prepare for their Pool D decider against France in Northampton on Sunday. Head coach Swys de Bruin has named Babalwa Latsha, the most capped prop in Springbok Women’s history, as captain for the clash. Latsha will lead a reshuffled side that sees flyhalf Mary Zulu and lock Anathi Qolo handed their first Rugby World Cup starts. Alongside them, several players will make their tournament debuts from the bench, including Luchell Hanekom, Xoliswa Khuzwayo, Nomsa Mokwai and Faith Tshauke. Springboks Women Squad
De Bruin said the changes were part of a deliberate plan to give all 32 squad members game time before the quarterfinals. “We decided before the tournament even started that in an ideal world, by the end of the pool stage, all 32 players would have played a part. That worked out well for us,” he explained. With fresh combinations and seasoned names like Tayla Kinsey, who will collect her 41st Test cap, also in the mix, South Africa are balancing development with experience.
MOMENTUM AND MILESTONES
Recent years have proven the Bok Women are on an upward curve:
Record win: 128-3 against Namibia in 2022. Climbing the rankings: Reaching 11th in the world in 2022 after wins over Japan and Spain.
Return to the big stage: Back on the international calendar after a four-year absence, their 2018 UK tour reset the clock and gave the squad new life.
MORE THAN JUST RUGBY
This is not only about results. It is about the building blocks of a legacy. With greater investment at grassroots, pathways for young players, and growing visibility, women’s rugby in South Africa is finding its feet. The Springbok Women’s progress is inspiring a new generation, showing that the green and gold jersey is not only for the men - it’s a badge of honour for all.
LOOKING AHEAD
The quarter-final berth is a start, not the finish line. Facing one of the giants of world rugby in
France, the Springbok Women will need composure, tactical edge, and belief. But make no mistake: this is no longer a team simply happy to be here. They are here to test themselves against the best, and maybe, just maybe, deliver another shock on the world stage.
.jpg)
MATCHDAY 23: SPRINGBOK WOMEN VS FRANCE (NORTHAMPTON)
STARTING XV:
15 Byrhandré Dolf – 24 caps, 57 points
14 Jakkie Cilliers – 21 caps, 106 points
13 Eloise Webb – 18 caps, 30 points
12 Chumisa Qawe – 23 caps, 20 points
11 Maceala Samboya – 5 caps, 20 points
10 Mary Zulu – 15 caps, 40 points
9 Nadine Roos – 20 caps, 45 points
8 Aseza Hele – 30 caps, 85 points
7 Catha Jacobs – 24 caps, 5 points
6 Lerato Makua – 17 caps, 20 points
5 Anathi Qolo – 9 caps, 5 points
4 Vainah Ubisi – 20 caps, 15 points
3 Babalwa Latsha (captain) – 38 caps, 30 points
2 Micke Gunter – 15 caps, 5 points
1 Yonela Ngxingolo – 37 caps, 15 points
REPLACEMENTS:
Luchell Hanekom – 9 caps, 0 points
Xoliswa Khuzwayo – 8 caps, 0 points
Nombuyekezo Mdliki – 7 caps, 0 points
Nomsa Mokwai – 13 caps, 0 points
Faith Tshauke – 3 caps, 15 points
Sinazo Mcatshulwa – 40 caps, 60 points
Tayla Kinsey – 40 caps, 53 points
Aphiwe Ngwevu – 29 caps, 65 points
Written by: Tieho Matsuma, rugby writer for Basadi in Action.
Comments
Post a Comment