The Springbok Women have announced a 32-player training squad for their upcoming Rugby's Greatest Rivalry match against the Black Ferns, marking a significant moment in women's rugby. This highly anticipated fixture will take place at Soweto's FNB Stadium, with the Springbok Women and Black Ferns playing each other immediately before the third Test between the Springboks and All Blacks.
The Springboks' recent victory over New Zealand in Cape Town has sparked excitement and momentum for the women's game. The squad includes 16 players from the match day 23 squad that faced New Zealand in the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 quarter-final. Notable names like Sanelisiwe Charlie, Micke Gunter, Danelle Lochner, Logan Welman, Unam Tose, Jakkie Cilliers, and Aphiwe Ngwevu have been recalled, while Nadine Roos, Sinazo Mcatshulwa, Eloise Webb, and Anathi Qolo are unfortunately missing due to injuries.
Babalwa Latsha, the Springbok Women's captain, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, 'It is almost surreal to think we are only playing each other for the first time in South Africa on the occasion of a Test match in Rugby's Greatest Rivalry between the Springboks and All Blacks.' She believes this match could be the beginning of a new era, allowing both teams to rise to the top echelons of the game and play more frequently against the Black Ferns.
The squad showcases a strong mix of experienced players and rising talents. The forwards include Babalwa Latsha, Xoliswa Khuzwayo, Sanelisiwe Charlie, Yonela Ngxingolo, Nombuyekezo Mdliki, Lindelwa Gwala, Micke Gunter, Anushka Groenewald, Nomsa Mokwai, Vainah Ubisi, Danelle Lochner, Sinelitha Noxeke, Nobuhle Mjwara, Catha Jacobs, Sizophila Solontsi, Aseza Hele, Logan Welman, and Lerato Makua. The backs feature Unam Tose, Anacadia Minnaar, Felicia Jacobs, Libbie Janse van Rensburg, Aphiwe Ngwevu, Shiniqwa Lamprecht, Zintle Mpupha, Patience Mokone, Ayanda Malinga, Jakkie Cilliers, Maceala Samboya, Maria Tshiremba, Alichia Arries, and Byrhandré Dolf.
This match is a significant step forward for women's rugby, providing an opportunity to showcase the sport's growth and potential. The Springbok Women's performance and the increasing visibility of the sport will undoubtedly inspire and motivate future generations of female rugby players.
