Springbok Women gear up for 'biggest game of our lives' in Rugby World Cup against Italy

Springbok Women’s outside centre Zintle Mpupha has called it “the biggest game of our lives” as South Africa gear up for a potentially historic clash against Italy in their second pool match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in York, England, this afternoon.

Victory over the Italians would not only avenge a narrow defeat suffered last season, but also secure the Springbok Women a first-ever place in the knockout rounds of the global showpiece — a landmark achievement for the team.

Confidence in the Bok camp is sky-high after their emphatic 66–6 demolition of Brazil in the tournament opener. Mpupha was a standout performer in that match, racking up 148 metres from 14 carries and completing 10 of her 11 tackles — a typically all-action display from South Africa’s all-time leading try scorer, with 20 tries from 27 Tests.

But the 30-year-old is under no illusions about the challenge posed by the higher-ranked Italians.

“This is the biggest game in our lives,” Mpupha said. “If we get past Italy, we’ll be in a strong position to qualify for the play-offs — which is what we came here for.”

“They are a very skilled team with strong attacking ability, but so are we. It’s going to be a wonderful match to be involved in.”

Reflecting on their commanding win over Brazil, Mpupha highlighted the quality of South Africa’s ball runners and backline cohesion.

“Some of the tries we scored were really well executed. We have very balanced runners out wide as well as powerful runners closer to the pack — and they combined nicely. It was great to play that kind of rugby in front of a supportive crowd in Northampton.”

While Mpupha could extend her individual try-scoring record this weekend, she insists her focus is squarely on the team’s objectives.

“This week has been all about ourselves and our preparation. We have a job to do, and we want to do it well. Knowing that I represent my country, my family and our supporters is a massive boost. Combined with clarity of purpose and a willingness to give it everything, I feel confident going into this crucial match.”

Meanwhile, Springbok Women head coach Swys de Bruin has opted for several changes in the backline as the team prepares for this pivotal encounter.

Utility back Nadine Roos moves from scrumhalf to fullback, with Unam Tose taking over at No 9. Byrhandré Dolf, who started at fullback against Brazil, shifts to right wing in place of Maceala Samboya.

Chumisa Qawe will make her tournament debut at inside centre, replacing Aphiwe Ngwevu, who drops to the bench. Eloise Webb, another Border Ladies standout, also makes her first appearance at this year’s World Cup, replacing Jakkie Cilliers among the substitutes.

The forward pack — which dominated the Brazilians at set pieces and collisions — remains unchanged, with De Bruin keeping faith in the same starting eight and impact players off the bench.

With the stakes as high as ever, and history within reach, all eyes will be on the Bok Women to deliver a performance worthy of their ambition — and perhaps, their moment of World Cup breakthrough.

Springbok Women: 15 Nadine Roos, 14 Byrhandré Dolf, 13 Zintle Mpupha, 12 Chumisa Qawe, 11 Ayanda Malinga, 10 Libbie Janse van Rensburg, 9 Unam Tose, 8 Aseza Hele, 7 Sinazo Mcatshulwa, 6 Sizophila Solontsi, 5 Danelle Lochner, 4 Nolusindiso Booi (captain), 3 Babalwa Latsha, 2 Lindelwa Gwala, 1 Sanelisiwe Charlie.

Replacements: 16 Micke Gunter, 17 Yonela Ngxingolo, 18 Nombuyekezo Mdliki, 19 Vainah Ubisi, 20 Lerato Makua, 21 Catha Jacobs, 22 Eloise Webb, 23 Aphiwe Ngwevu.