Unchanged Springbok Women’s Starting XV ready for Kenyan showdown in Antananarivo

The Springbok Women are sticking with a winning formula as they prepare to face Kenya in their second Rugby Africa Women’s Cup match at Stade Makis in Antananarivo on Wednesday.

Head coach Louis Koen and his management team have named an unchanged starting XV following their emphatic 62-7 victory over Uganda last week.

The only alteration comes on the bench, where experienced loose forward Nompumelelo Mathe returns to the matchday squad in place of wing Nomawethu Mabenge. This tactical change sees South Africa opt for a six-two split between forwards and backs, underlining their intent to dominate the physical exchanges against a Kenyan outfit known for their grit and resilience.

Mathe, who last featured at the same venue during the 2023 tournament, brings 20 caps’ worth of experience and will look to inject further energy when called upon.

Confidence High After Uganda Triumph

After running in 10 tries against Uganda, confidence is clearly high in the Bok Women’s camp. The decision to keep the same starting line-up also speaks volumes about the coaching team’s belief in the group’s cohesion and ability.

“Continuity is key,” said Koen. “The players performed well and earned the right to go again. Kenya will be a tougher challenge, but we believe in our systems and our preparation.”

Kenya started their campaign with a convincing 28-5 win over hosts Madagascar and are expected to pose a sterner test. However, the Springbok Women’s focus remains internal, with the emphasis on executing their game plan rather than being drawn into a physical rivalry.

Mokone Poised for More Impact

Bulls Daisies wing Patience Mokone, one of eight debutants last week, made a strong impression with a two-try performance on debut. She’s already looking ahead.

“It was emotional stepping onto the field for my country, but once the whistle went, it was time to do my job,” said Mokone. “Now, it’s about the next job. I’m focused on my role and contributing to the team. Wednesday isn’t about me; it’s about us.”

Mokone’s grounded mindset is shared across the squad, which now features no uncapped players, a development that should help steady nerves in what promises to be a fiercely contested fixture.

Healthy Rivalry, Same Focus

While South Africa and Kenya have forged a competitive rivalry in African women’s rugby, the Springbok Women are intent on staying true to their process.

“Yes, we know the history, but we can’t allow the rivalry to distract us,” added Mokone. “It’s not about beating Kenya; it’s about executing our plan and continuing our growth as a team.”

A Dominant Head-to-Head Record

The two nations last met on 8 May 2024, also in Antananarivo, where South Africa stormed to a 63-5 victory. The Springbok Women hold a commanding record over the Lionesses, winning all six of their previous encounters since 2019, scoring a combined 322 points, and conceding just 44.

Match Details

• Fixture: Springbok Women vs Kenya
• Venue: Stade Makis, Antananarivo
• Date: Wednesday, 11 June 2024
• Kick-off (SA Time): 12 noon
• Referee: Julie Randriarimanana (Madagascar)
• Broadcast: stream on Rugby Afrique’s Facebook page and Rugbypass.tv; also available on SuperSport Channel 199

Springbok Women Starting XV:

1. Xoliswa Khuzwayo (Golden Lions)
2. Luchell Hanekom (DHL Western Province)
3. Nombuyekezo Mdliki (Border Ladies)
4. Nomsa Mokwai (DHL Western Province)
5. Anathi Qolo (Captain, Bulls Daisies)
6. Anushka Groenewald (DHL Western Province)
7. Lerato Makua (Bulls Daisies)
8. Faith Tshauke (Bulls Daisies)
9. Unam Tose (Bulls Daisies)
10. Mary Zulu (Sharks Women)
11. Patience Mokone (Bulls Daisies)
12. Aphiwe Ngwevu (Border Ladies)
13. Chuma Qawe (Bulls Daisies)
14. Simamkele Namba (Springbok Women’s Sevens)
15. Byrhandrѐ Dolf (Bulls Daisies)

Replacements:

1. Roseline Botes (DHL Western Province)
2. Anuchka Ekron (DHL Western Province)
3. Sinothile Bhengu (Sharks Women)
4. Dineo Ndlhovu (Bulls Daisies)
5. Nobuhle Mjwara (Sharks Women)
6. Nompumelelo Mathe (Sanlam Boland Dames)
7. Felicia Jacobs (Sanlam Boland Dames)
8. Leigh Fortuin (DHL Western Province)