Springbok Women’s star Rights Mkhari is set to rejoin the national training squad at the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport this week for their fourth alignment camp of the year.
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The Springbok Women’s rugby team is preparing for their fourth alignment camp at the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport this week, and bolstering the squad is the return of star forward Rights Mkhari. Her reintegration comes on the heels of a successful stint with the Springbok Women’s Sevens team, which has inspired a renewed wave of optimism for the 15s format.
Mkhari has been in fine form, showcasing her versatile skills during the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger tournaments held in Cape Town over the last two weekends. The South African side notched notable finishes, securing a third and second place, while Mkhari’s standout performances were evidential of her readiness to reclaim her position in the full national squad.
“I am pleased to have finished these two tournaments, as I needed that confirmation mentally and physically,” Mkhari shared after the Challenger Series. “We had a disappointing end to the weekend, but now my focus will move to the training camp. I have a lot to catch up on, but I am grateful for the opportunity presented to me by the coaching staff.”
Mkhari last donned the Springbok Women’s 15s jersey in October 2023, contributing significantly to a resounding 33-7 victory over Samoa at WXV 2 in Cape Town. However, her transition to the sevens format dealt her a setback; a knee injury suffered during the HSBC SVNS in December 2023 kept her out for the entirety of the 2024 season. Now, her return to fitness has marked her first call-up under new head coach Swys de Bruin, hinting at a promising revival for both Mkhari and the squad.
Despite Mkhari's re-entry into the fold, the upcoming training camp will be missing several key players due to injury. Luchell Hanekom, Roseline Botes, Nobuhle Mjwara, and Lusanda Dumke will not be participating. However, Vainah Ubisi, who has been recovering from knee surgery, will attend the camp for the first time this year, offering a glimmer of hope to an otherwise depleted roster.
Adding to the excitement, the squad will also welcome back four prominent overseas-based stars. Catha Jacobs (Leicester Tigers Women), Lindelwa Gwala (Ealing Trailfinders Women), Babalwa Latsha, and Danelle Lochner (both of Harlequins Women) have successfully concluded their club commitments abroad. Meanwhile, Sinazo Mcatshulwa remains in France and is yet to rejoin her teammates.
The integration of these skilled players, combined with Mkhari’s comeback, is poised to provide the Springbok Women with a fresh approach as they gear up for their upcoming challenges. Stakeholders and fans alike will be keen to witness the enhancements in team dynamics as preparations progress towards the next stages of international competition.
With the camp providing a crucial platform for preparations, the Springbok Women will be looking to build momentum as they continue their journey toward upcoming international competitions.
Springbok Women Training Squad:
Bulls Daisies: Ayanda Malinga, Chumisa Qawe, Byrhandre Dolf, Libbie Janse van Rensburg, Jakkie Cilliers, Zintle Mpupha, Unam Tose, Anathi Qolo, Faith Tshauke, Lerato Makua, Sizophila Solontsi, Vainah Ubisi, Sanelisiwe Charlie, Yonela Ngxingolo, Micke Gunter, Xolelwa Diliza.
Sharks Women: Mary Zulu, Tayla Kinsey.
Border Ladies: Aphiwe Ngwevu, Eloise Webb, Nombuyekezo Mdliki.
Sanlam Boland Dames: Aseza Hele, Veroeshka Grain, Nomawethu Mabenge, Maceala Samboya.
DHL Western Province: Azisa Mkiva, Nolusindiso Booi, Nomsa Mokwai, Alicia Willemse.
Sevens: Rights Mkhari, Nadine Roos.
Overseas-based Players: Catha Jacobs (Leicester Tigers Women), Lindelwa Gwala (Ealing Trailfinders Women), Babalwa Latsha, Danelle Lochner (both Harlequins Women).
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