Veteran prop Yonela Ngxingolo of the Springbok Women could achieve a significant career milestone if she plays in the upcoming match against Ireland on Saturday at Athlone Stadium. This fixture is part of the first of two WXV Global Series Tests, scheduled for 3 pm kick-off in the Mother City.
The national coaching staff has implemented several adjustments to the squad that previously faced Spain. Ngxingolo, whose debut occurred in 2018, would become only the second player to reach 50 caps for the national team, following in the footsteps of the retired Nolusindiso Booi.
Due to injuries to regular captain and tighthead prop Babalwa Latsha, flanker Sizophila Solontsi will assume the captaincy for these two home Tests. Additionally, Xoliswa Khuzwayo will take the No 3 position in this particular contest, having played at loosehead against Spain.
The Boks team is set to compete against Ireland, which is currently ranked fifth globally, marking their first encounter since 2006. Co-head coach Franzel September anticipates a demanding challenge from the opposition.
Комментарии руководства команды
September stated that success will belong to the team that manages the less favorable moments during the game most effectively. He noted that despite only two forced changes due to tighthead injuries, he is pleased with the integration of the new props, who have been part of the system throughout the year.
He added that the team is enthusiastic about Ngxingolo's potential milestone. September praised her development within the team, mentioning that she has recently provided valuable contributions from the replacement bench. He expressed confidence in her ability to perform when selected, noting excitement for her and her family.
September further elaborated on the strategic importance of the substitutes in the match. South Africa has chosen a six-two split for the bench, though it can operate as a traditional five-three setup utilizing the hybrid Aphiwe Ngwevu, who can cover both flanker and inside centre roles.
This flexibility allows September and his coaches to reinforce either the forwards or the backs depending on when they decide to utilize the utility player. He highlighted Ngwevu's growth in this capacity, citing her appearances as a centre against Italy and as a loose forward against Spain. He emphasized that her physical attributes and defensive capabilities offer significant advantages from the bench, regardless of whether she plays in the backline or as a loose forward.
Состав Springbok Women
The starting lineup includes 15 Jakkie Cilliers, 14 Alichia Arries, 13 Maceala Samboya, 12 Shiniqwa Lamprecht, 11 Maria Tshiremba, 10 Byrhandré Dolf, 9 Unam Tose, 8 Aseza Hele, 7 Lerato Makua, 6 Sizophila Solontsi (captain), 5 Catha Jacobs, 4 Vainah Ubisi, 3 Xoliswa Khuzwayo, 2 Anushka Groenewald, and 1 Sanelisiwe Charlie. The reserve players consist of 16 Lindelwa Gwala, 17 Yonela Ngxingolo, 18 Thandile Mazwi, 19 Danelle Lochner, 20 Logan Welman, 21 Aphiwe Ngwevu, 22 Anacadia Minnaar, and 23 Mary Zulu.