Springbok Women name three debutants for Rugby Africa Women's Cup clash with Uganda

South Africa have named three debutants in their squad to face Uganda in Round 2 of the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in Nairobi, Kenya, as the Springbok Women pursue a fifth consecutive continental title.

Shaunique Alexander earns her first cap on the wing, while Zethu Gcaza makes her international debut in the pack and Abigail Smit is set to debut from the replacements bench. Assistant coach Laurian Johannes-Haupt, who is leading the side in Nairobi, highlighted the youth of two of the newcomers. “Abigail and Zethu are still Under-20, so for them to be playing at this level tells you a lot about their potential and where they can go,” she said. “We are excited to see what they can bring to our system, and their selection is also a complement to our pathway structures.”

Of Alexander, Johannes-Haupt was equally enthusiastic. “Shaunique is a dangerous runner with good speed and an awareness of the game, so we are all excited to see her go.”

The selections come off the back of a commanding 64-5 victory over Madagascar on Saturday, in which South Africa scored 10 tries through 10 different scorers. Jackie Cilliers was the standout performer, contributing one try and seven conversions, and she retains her starting place at centre alongside Naima Hlatshwayo, who earns her second cap. Insaaf Levy and Thamie Yeko also return for their second Test appearances, while Anathi Qolo captains the side from the back row.

South Africa have met Uganda only three times in their history. The most recent encounter came at last year’s Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in Madagascar, where the Springboks ran out 62-7 winners. Johannes-Haupt cautioned against complacency, however, noting that Uganda had impressed in their opening fixture despite losing 43-10 to Kenya. “They are not the Uganda of old,” she said. “They are well coached and sharpened up their breakdown very well, not allowing their opponents to get in there. They are looking after their own ball well and on attack, and they do not mind kicking into open spaces to make their opponents turn around.”

The coach stressed that South Africa’s own standards remain the primary focus. “Our own game plan remains the most important goal for this match, and we want to take another step forward in our journey for this year.”