Bok Women Squad: Rugby World Cup 2025
South African rugby is buzzing with pride as the Springbok Women’s squad for the Rugby World Cup 2025 was officially revealed beginning of August. Nolusindiso Booi, the most-capped Springbok Women’s player, will lead the team in England later this month. With 19 of the 32 players boasting previous World Cup experience, the Bok Women 2025 are heading into the tournament with both maturity and fresh energy.
Head coach Swys de Bruin announced the Bok Women squad 2025 at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg. Underlining the balance between seasoned leaders and exciting new talent. South Africa will compete in Pool D against Brazil, Italy, and France. With their opening clash against Brazil on Sunday, 24 August at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton.
Leadership and Experience
Booi, who has already represented the Springbok Ladies at three previous Rugby World Cups (2010, 2014, and 2022). Thus carries both history and leadership into the tournament. As the most experienced Test captain with 23 matches as skipper, she brings invaluable composure. Supporting her is vice-captain Babalwa Latsha. A powerhouse prop who has led the Women Springbok team in 14 Test matches and recently in the series against the Black Ferns XV.
Between Booi and Tayla Kinsey, who also played in both the 2014 and 2022 World Cups, the squad boasts a combined 689 Test caps. This depth of experience provides a solid platform for success, while newcomers inject much-needed dynamism into the team.
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New Faces in the Green and Gold
Among the 19 forwards, eight are preparing for their first Rugby World Cup appearance. Names like Anathi Qolo, Luchell Hanekom, Xoliswa Khuzwayo, Nombuyekezo Mdliki, Danelle Lochner, Vainah Ubisi, and Faith Tshauke add new firepower to the pack. These players impressed in fixtures earlier this year. Including the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in Madagascar and Test matches against Canada.
The backline also welcomes fresh blood. Maceala Samboya, Ayanda Malinga, Mary Zulu, as well as Byrhandré Dolf are stepping into their debut Rugby World Cup campaigns. Thus blending with seasoned backs such as Libbie Janse van Rensburg, Zintle Mpupha, Aphiwe Ngwevu, and Nadine Roos. This mix of rising stars and also established names gives De Bruin flexibility in his game plan.
The Coach’s Confidence
De Bruin expressed excitement about the balance achieved in the Springbok Women 2025 squad. “We used 49 players this season across six Test matches and four international friendlies. I know we got the balance right. There will always be players who are unlucky, but we are confident this group can compete strongly. The combinations we can create excite me and give us options for every opponent,” he said.
He also praised the players’ resilience: “This selection is a culmination of hard work and sacrifice. Every player’s journey has been tough, and their determination to be here is inspiring.”
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Pool D Battles Await
The Springbok Ladies face a challenging but exciting group stage. Here is their Rugby World Cup 2025 schedule (SA times):
- Sunday, 24 August at 15:45 – South Africa vs Brazil (Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton)
- Sunday, 31 August at 16:30 – South Africa vs Italy (York Community Stadium, York)
- Sunday, 7 September at 17:45 – South Africa vs France (Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton)
If the Bok Women 2025 progress, the quarter-finals will take place on 13/14 September, followed by the semi-finals on 19/20 September, with the grand final set for 27 September.
A Nation Rallies Behind the Springbok Women
South Africans across the country are throwing their support behind the Springbok Women’s campaign. From rugby clubs and schools to fans at home proudly donning the South Africa rugby jersey womens design, the call is loud and clear: the nation is standing proudly behind its women in green and gold.
The passion is growing stronger than ever, particularly after recent standout performances against Canada and the Black Ferns XV, which showcased South Africa’s grit on the international stage. This tournament is more than just rugby; it is an opportunity to inspire a new generation of girls and women to take up the sport.
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Spotlight on Key Players in Women Bok Squad
Several players stand out as ones to watch in this World Cup, however the entire team is one to support and watch as they aim to make history:
- Nolusindiso Booi – With over 50 caps, her leadership and composure in high-pressure situations will be vital.
- Babalwa Latsha – A formidable force at prop and an inspirational leader off the field.
- Aphiwe Ngwevu – Known for her attacking brilliance in the midfield, she remains one of South Africa’s most dangerous backs.
- Zintle Mpupha – With over 100 career points, her try-scoring instincts make her a game-changer.
- Libbie Janse van Rensburg – South Africa’s sharp-shooting flyhalf and leading point-scorer, crucial for converting opportunities.
The Springbok Women squad 2025 assembled in Johannesburg on 12 August before departing for England on 14 August. With preparations now shifting into high gear, the team’s focus is on sharpening strategies, solidifying combinations, and building momentum for their opening clash against Brazil on 24 August 2025. For more top women rugby players have a look at our Top Rugby Women 2025.
Bok Women Ready for Glory
The Springbok Women 2025 squad is a blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting newcomers, ready to take on the world. With Nolusindiso Booi leading from the front and Swys de Bruin’s coaching team fine-tuning preparations, South Africa heads into the tournament with confidence and national pride on their side.
The countdown is on, and the message is clear: the country is behind the Springbok Ladies every step of the way. Their journey begins on 24 August, and all eyes will be on England as the Women Springbok team aims to write a new chapter in South Africa’s rugby history.
Betway sponsors the Springbok Women’s team as part of a renewed four-year partnership with SA Rugby that extends their support to include all four national Springbok teams, with their logo featured on the back of the team’s shorts. Betway has also been involved in other initiatives to develop and empower coaches in women’s rugby, such as the Betway Next Phase program.
