Springbok Women name revamped backline and one forward change for WXV opener in Cardiff

Park on Friday. Co-coaches Laurian Johannes-Haupt and Franzel September have made clear selection choices: they have overhauled the backline while making only one change to the pack that produced four tries against New Zealand in Johannesburg.

Babalwa Latsha captains the side. The front row is Lindelwa Gwala and Sanelisiwe Charlie alongside Latsha. Vice-captain Libbie Janse van Rensburg starts at fly-half. Janse van Rensburg previously scored a try at Cardiff Arms Park in 2021 and could extend her Test points tally in this match.

Felicia Jacobs comes in at scrum-half, forming the 9-10 pairing with Janse van Rensburg. Maria Tshiremba returns to the backs after a hat-trick on debut against Fiji last month. The midfield features Maceala Samboya and Aphiwe Ngwevu.

Back three, bench and utility cover

Byrhandré Dolf starts at fullback, with Ayanda Malinga and Maria Tshiremba on the wings/centres as listed. The bench is set up as a 6-2 split (six forwards, two backs). Notable bench names include props Xoliswa Khuzwayo and Nombuyekezo Mdliki, lock Nomsa Mokwai, and utility forward Sinelitha Noxeke, added for impact off the bench.

The only change to the starting pack is at No. 8: Logan Welman replaces Aseza Hele, who drops to the bench. Other starters in the pack include Catha Jacobs (7), Sizophila Solontsi (6), Danelle Lochner (5), Vainah Ubisi (4) and the experienced front row already listed.

Coaching message and tournament purpose

Co-coach Franzel September described WXV as a vehicle to expand the squad's experience and readiness for future campaigns. He said the coaching staff are already planning toward the 2029 Women's Rugby World Cup and want to use the competition to give starting opportunities to players who have often been on the bench. He also stressed set-piece strength and acknowledged Wales will present different tactical questions in Cardiff.

• Janse van Rensburg is a primary points scorer for the side and carries experience at Cardiff.

• The inclusion of Jakkie Cilliers and Patience Mokone provides cover across backline positions while Sinelitha Noxeke gives a forward utility option.

Expect South Africa to test Wales in the set phases, where the coaching staff say they are strongest. The restructured backline will be judged on its cohesion early in the match, while the single forward change at No. 8 provides slightly different ball-carrying and breakdown dynamics. The bench profile suggests South Africa plan to influence the game with forward reinforcements, plus tactical back replacements if needed.