Minnaar returns as Springbok Women name settled squad to face fifth-ranked Ireland

Anacadia Minnaar has been recalled to the Springbok Women squad for the two-Test WXV Global Series home series against Ireland at Cape Town’s Athlone Stadium, after the scrum-half was forced to withdraw late from South Africa’s European tour in September.

Minnaar’s return comes at the expense of Felicia Jacobs, who had replaced her for the European leg in which the Springbok Women lost to Wales 50-19 before beating Italy 41-29 and defeating Spain 20-0 in Seville. Insaaf Levy has also been added to the group, covering for the injured Ayanda Malinga.

Co-coaches Laurian Johannes-Haupt and Franzel September have otherwise opted for continuity, naming a largely unchanged squad that will assemble in Stellenbosch ahead of the series. Captain Babalwa Latsha is included despite leaving the win over Spain with an injury, while Libbie Janse van Rensburg misses out through injury.

“We opted for continuity as we have good momentum from the last couple of matches on tour, hence the call to stay with the same group of players,” Johannes-Haupt said. “Anacadia could unfortunately not travel to Europe, but we are happy to have her back, while we also want to bring Insaaf closer to the action and tap into her skill set.”

Johannes-Haupt was clear-eyed about the challenge ahead, noting that Ireland’s world ranking demands respect. “Ireland are not the fifth-ranked team in the world for nothing — they will really test us,” she said. “We are pleased on how the season progressed and want to finish it strong at home. Athlone Stadium has been a happy hunting ground for us in recent years and it is a perfect setting for us to close out the season.”

Free State Women centre Aisha Camara and DHL Western Province prop Anothando Katshwa have been invited to train with the squad for the remainder of the WXV Global Series 2026 campaign.