The Springbok Women have opted for continuity over experimentation as they prepare to close out a memorable 2026 season with two crucial Tests against fifth-ranked Ireland at Athlone Stadium.
Co-coaches Laurian Johannes-Haupt and Franzel September have named a settled 30-player squad that mirrors the group which conquered Italy and Spain on their recent European tour, with only two changes forced by circumstance rather than form. Anacadia Minnaar returns after missing the trip north through injury, replacing Felicia Jacobs, whilst Insaaf Levy steps in for the stricken Ayanda Malinga as the Springbok Women prepare to face a stern test in the closing stretch.
The decision to back the same core that delivered back-to-back victories in Europe signals clear intent, Johannes-Haupt and September believe they’ve found a formula that works, and with momentum on their side, now is not the time for wholesale tinkering.
“We opted for continuity as we have good momentum from the last couple of matches on tour, hence the call to stay with the same group of players,” explained Johannes-Haupt. “Anacadia could unfortunately not travel to Europe, but we are happy to have her back, while we also want to bring Insaaf closer to the action and tap into her skill set.”
Ireland pose stern examination
Make no mistake, Ireland arrive in Cape Town as a formidable outfit. Ranked fifth in the world, they will test the Springbok Women’s set-piece prowess, defensive organisation and composure under pressure.
Johannes-Haupt isn’t underestimating the challenge. “Ireland are not the fifth-ranked team in the world for nothing, they will really test us,” she cautioned, a reminder that whilst victories over Italy and Spain have generated confidence, the visitors from the northern hemisphere will demand even higher standards.
Minnaar, who last featured against the Black Ferns just over a month ago, brings experience and composure to the backline, whilst Levy, who impressed during two Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Tests in Kenya in May before touring Brazil with the SA Women ‘A’ side in August, adds depth and a different skill set to the matchday equation.
Athlone: Where Springbok dreams come alive
The choice of Athlone Stadium as the venue for both Tests is no accident.
“Athlone Stadium has been a happy hunting ground for us in recent years and it is a perfect setting for us to close out the season,” said Johannes-Haupt, clearly relishing the prospect of finishing the campaign on home soil in front of passionate supporters.
Both Tests, scheduled for 24 and 31 October with 15h00 kick-offs, will conclude South Africa’s 2026 WXV Global Series campaign. The squad assembles in Stellenbosch on Wednesday before commencing preparations on Thursday, with a move to Cape Town on Sunday ensuring they’re settled and acclimatised ahead of the opening clash.
Tickets are available exclusively through Ticketmaster on a per-match basis, providing fans the opportunity to witness history as the Springbok Women look to cap a season of progress with a statement series victory.
Building depth for the future
In a boost for South Africa’s depth, Free State Women centre Aisha Camara and DHL Western Province prop Anothando Katshwa have been invited to train with the squad throughout the camp. The exposure to elite-level training environments and matchday preparations represents invaluable development for both players as the Springbok Women continue building for future campaigns.
Captain Babalwa Latsha will once again lead from the front, her 47 caps of experience vital as the pack looks to lay the platform for backline stars like Jakkie Cilliers and the electric Byrhandré Dolf to exploit space and punish defensive lapses.
With a settled squad, home advantage, and the confidence that comes from consecutive victories, the Springbok Women have everything in place to deliver a fitting finale to 2026. Ireland, though, will have other ideas. This series promises fireworks.
Springbok Women squad for Ireland Tests:
Forwards (18): Aseza Hele (Sanlam Boland Dames), Logan Welman (DHL Western Province), Lerato Makua (SA Rugby contracted), Sizophila Solontsi (SA Rugby contracted), Catha Jacobs (Golden Lions Women), Aphiwe Ngwevu (Border Ladies), Sinelitha Noxeke (Isuzu Bulls Daisies), Nomsa Mokwai (DHL Western Province), Danelle Lochner (Harlequins Women), Vainah Ubisi (Isuzu Bulls Daisies), Babalwa Latsha (captain; DHL Western Province), Nombuyekezo Mdliki (Border Ladies), Xoliswa Khuzwayo (Golden Lions Women), Yonela Ngxingolo (Isuzu Bulls Daisies), Sanelisiwe Charlie (Isuzu Bulls Daisies), Anushka Groenewald (DHL Western Province), Lindelwa Gwala (Sharks Women), Micke Gunter (Leicester Tigers).
Backs (12): Jakkie Cilliers (RC Toulon Provence Méditerranée), Alichia Arries (DHL Western Province), Patience Mokone (SA Rugby contracted), Maria Tshiremba (SA Rugby contracted), Maceala Samboya (Sanlam Boland Dames), Naima Hlatshwayo (Isuzu Bulls Daisies), Shiniqwa Lamprecht (Sanlam Boland Dames), Byrhandré Dolf (SA Rugby contracted), Mary Zulu (Sharks Women), Unam Tose (Isuzu Bulls Daisies), Anacadia Minnaar (EP Queens), Insaaf Levy (DHL Western Province).
Training invites: Aisha Camara (Free State Women), Anothando Katshwa (DHL Western Province).
