This Saturday, Lusanda Dumke will step up as the captain of the Springbok Women as they face off against Australia at Athlone Stadium in Cape Town.
This match marks an important milestone in the second round of the WXV 2 tournament, and anticipation is building for what promises to be an exhilarating contest.
Dumke Takes the Helm
In her 32nd Test, Dumke will don the captain’s armband for the third time in her career, previously leading the Springbok Women twice against Kenya in 2021.
She takes over this leadership role from Nolusindiso Booi, who will be available as a substitute, adding to her impressive record of 48 Test caps.
The coaching staff, led by Swys de Bruin, has made several changes to the lineup following their narrow 31-24 victory over Japan last weekend, making Dumke’s inclusion a significant move for the team.
Lineup Changes for the Match
Dumke is stepping in for Sizophila Solontsi at flanker, and there’s another adjustment in the pack: Danelle Lochner swaps places with Booi.
In the backline, Unam Tose will be making her first start of the year at scrumhalf, while Zintle Mpupha replaces Eloise Webb in the midfield alongside vice-captain Chumisa Qawe.
Webb has shifted to fullback to cover for Libbie Janse van Rensburg, who unfortunately sustained a leg injury during training.
On the bench, the squad maintains a balance of six forwards and two backs.
Notably, scrumhalf Felicia Jacobs and utility back Byrhandré Dolf could make their WXV debuts this weekend, while Solontsi will also be available to contribute as a finisher.
Staying Focused on the Bigger Picture
De Bruin emphasized that the primary focus remains the Rugby World Cup set to take place in England next year.
He believes the selected match-23 is well-equipped to tackle the challenge posed by Australia.
“We have 30 players in our squad, giving us the flexibility to adjust our lineup as needed,” De Bruin shared.
Lusanda was unavailable against Japan due to return-to-play protocols but is now ready to lead.
“As a world-class player, she’ll bring her best on Saturday,” De Bruin added.
He also noted the importance of developing depth in the leadership group.
Injuries are an unfortunate aspect of the sport, and De Bruin acknowledged the losses of Lindelwa Gwala and Libbie Janse van Rensburg.
However, he sees these challenges as opportunities for other players to step up.
Learning from the Competition
While Australia had a strong showing against Wales last weekend, De Bruin noted that their own performance remains the priority.
“They played exceptionally well, but our focus is on enhancing our strengths and minimizing errors,” he explained.
The team has a solid strategy in place and feels prepared to deliver an impressive performance at Athlone Stadium.
Get Your Tickets!
For fans eager to catch the action, tickets for the weekend’s matches are available through Ticketmaster.
Springbok Women’s Starting XV
- Eloise Webb
- Jakkie Cilliers
- Zintle Mpupha
- Chumisa Qawe
- Ayanda Malinga
- Nadine Roos
- Unam Tose
- Aseza Hele
- Sinazo Mcatshulwa
- Lusanda Dumke (captain)
- Vainah Ubisi
- Danelle Lochner
- Babalwa Latsha
- Roseline Botes
- Sanelisiwe Charlie
Substitutes:
16. Micke Gunter
17. Yonela Ngxingolo
18. Azisa Mkiva
19. Nolusindiso Booi
20. Catha Jacobs
21. Sizophila Solontsi
22. Felicia Jacobs
23. Byrhandre Dolf
With all eyes on the field, fans can expect a thrilling showdown as the Springbok Women battle it out against the Wallaroos!
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