Springbok Women ready to face Black Ferns. Image: SA Rugby.
(The Post News)– The Boks Women Squad for the quarter finals against New Zealand has made bold changes, with 13 players from that Italy match, including six from the bench, returning for what promises to be the most significant clash in Springboks Women’s history.
Coach Stanley Raubenheimer made 10 changes to the starting lineup that played against France last Sunday, bringing back regular captain Nolusindiso Booi. Alongside her, Lindelwa Gwala (hooker), Danelle Lochner (lock), Sizophila Solontsi (flank), Libbie Janse van Rensburg (flyhalf), Zintle Mpupha (center), and Ayanda Malinga (wing) all return to the squad after being rested last weekend. These players last featured in the win over Italy two weeks ago.
De Bruin selected locks Vainah Ubisi and Anathi Qolo, along with loose forwards Catha Jacobs and Lerato Makua, all of whom started against France, to come off the bench. The front-row trio of Yonela Nxgingola, Luchell Hanekom, and Nombuyekezo Mdliki round out the “bomb squad,” with Eloise Webb as the only backline substitute.
De Bruin Explains Boks Women Squad’s 7-1 Split
De Bruin explained the reasoning behind the forward-heavy bench: “We chose a 7-1 split based on our team profile. We want to dominate up front, and by fielding two fresh packs, one for each half, we believe we can physically challenge the Black Ferns. We specifically rested several players against France so they could be fully ready for this Test.”
He emphasized how carefully they managed the Boks squad’s workload. De Bruin said that they had to plan carefully, as their team is not accustomed to playing against this level of opposition or at this intensity. He is, however, pleased to report that everything went as planned and that they are now prepared for the match.
While acknowledging the massive challenge of facing New Zealand, De Bruin remained proud of the Boks Women’s progress: “New Zealand has won the World Cup six times. In 2017, we didn’t even qualify for the playoffs, and we lost every match in 2022; that’s how far behind we were. Their passing accuracy and skill are phenomenal, clearly showing their early exposure to the game. That’s not our reality, but we’ve come a long way. Few teams can match our heart and determination.”
He further urged the Boks to play like their lives depend on it, noting, “Leave it all on the field. If you’re too tired to walk at the final whistle, we’ll carry you off.” He also encouraged the players to enjoy the game, as it is the biggest game of their lives.
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