Scythian spirit at Loftus: Springbok Women brace for Canada clash

Centuries ago, Scythian women rode into battle alongside their male counterparts, armed with bows and blades, earning a fearsome reputation on the open steppes of Central Asia. They may not have been as physically powerful as the men, but they fought with the same courage, on the same fields, for the same cause.

On Saturday at Loftus Versfeld, the Springbok Women will do something similar – sharing the turf with the Springboks, but contesting a battle of their own as they take on second-ranked Canada in their first home Test of the year.

Captain Nolusindiso Booi, South Africa’s most-capped women’s player and now the most experienced captain in Springbok Women history, said her team is focused, fired up, and ready to face a formidable opponent.

“We certainly are well aware of how good Canada have been playing in recent months, in fact, over the last couple of years,” Booi said on Friday.

“They are skilful and a hard team to stop once they get into their stride. So, we know it is going to be a tough challenge, but we want nothing else than that."

With just 49 days to go until the Rugby World Cup, the Test is an essential step in the Springbok Women’s preparations.

“We have been working really hard, with many camps and the tour to Europe a couple of months back, so we come well prepared into this match,” Booi added.

“The fact that we are also playing at home for the first time this year and will share the field with the Springboks as well, is another boost.”

Saturday’s fixture marks the first time Canada and South Africa will meet on South African soil. Though separated by 10 places on the world rankings, Booi said the team understands its responsibility – to perform for those who came before, and those who will follow.

A proud history

“We have to honour those who came before us and laid the pathway for us to where we are today,” she said.

“We are mindful that we are now also laying a foundation for the next generation, so it is very important to showcase our talent and play to the best of our ability.”

Assistant coach Franzel September echoed that sense of readiness, saying the Springbok pack would look to impose their physicality on the visitors.

“Canada is very skilful and can keep the ball for many phases, but our focus will be to implement the things we are working on,” he said.

“Our pack is powerful and we would like to think we can deliver a physical challenge to them.”

“We do not often have the opportunity to play in a stadium like this and share a field with the Springboks, so we need to embrace that opportunity.

“We hope the crowds will come early and watch us play as well, as we will be proudly representing them and of course the Springbok jersey.”

Kick-off is scheduled for 1:30pm at Loftus Versfeld, with the match broadcast live on SuperSport.