Two new faces are on the verge of making their mark for South Africa’s Springbok Women’s Sevens team, as Nompumelelo Mathe and Leigh Fortuin prepare for their first appearances in green and gold.

The talented duo has been named to compete in the Africa Women’s Sevens tournament scheduled for November 9-10 in Ghana, promising a strong lineup for the highly anticipated competition.

Mathe and Fortuin Bring Fresh Talent

Mathe, an experienced loose forward with 20 caps for the Springbok Women’s team, and Fortuin, who recently led the Junior Springbok Women’s team, are set to join an accomplished squad.

Head coach Renfred Dazel has selected a mix of seasoned and emerging players for the tournament, which will take place at the Rugby Stadium of the University of Ghana in Accra.

A Strong Core of Veterans

Leading the team is South Africa’s most experienced women’s sevens player, Mathrin Simmers.

Backed by several HSBC SVNS regulars, the team aims to secure one of the top three spots to qualify for the World Rugby Challenger Series.

Key players like Ayanda Malinga, Zintle Mpupha, Felicia Jacobs, Maria Tshiremba, and Nadine Roos have returned to the squad after their involvement in the recent WXV 2 tournament.

These veterans will join consistent contributors from the 2024 season, including Kemisetso Baloyi, Shiniqwa Lamprecht, Zandile Masuku, and Liske Lategan.

Coach Dazel’s Insights on the Team Selection

Coach Renfred Dazel shared his thoughts on the new inclusions and returning players, emphasizing Mathe and Fortuin’s seamless adaptation.

“Leigh had been with us previously but was too young to compete at the time.

Nompumelelo, on the other hand, joined us effortlessly, and I’m confident they’re both ready to make a strong start in Ghana,” Dazel explained.

He noted the familiarity of the returning fifteens players with the sevens format, requiring only minor adjustments, while they rejoined the squad in excellent form post-Olympics.

Preparing for a Key Tournament

With a clear focus on the competition ahead, the Springbok Women’s Sevens squad has been training intensively.

“This tournament holds significant importance, and every player knows what’s at stake,” added Dazel.

The team is set to kick off against Burkina Faso, followed by pool matches against Zimbabwe and Tunisia in Pool A.

Springbok Women’s Sevens Squad for Ghana

Squad Roster: Leigh Fortuin*, Kemisetso Baloyi, Ayanda Malinga, Zintle Mpupha, Nompumelelo Mathe*, Felicia Jacobs, Maria Tshiremba, Shiniqwa Lamprecht, Nadine Roos, Mathrin Simmers (captain), Zandile Masuku, Liske Lategan. (* Uncapped players)

With the countdown to Ghana underway, all eyes are on these skilled athletes to bring their best to the field and continue South Africa’s legacy in women’s sevens rugby.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn