Springbok Women to host Ireland in first-ever Test series as WXV Global Series expands

South Africa’s Springbok Women will host Ireland in a historic two-match Test series in Cape Town this October, marking the first time the two nations have faced each other in 20 years and the first-ever Test series between the sides, as part of the WXV Global Series.

Springbok Women head coach Swys de Bruin described the fixture as a landmark moment for the programme. “It is hard to believe we have never played in a Test series, something that also reminds us how important it was for the Springbok Women to break into the top tier of the women’s world game,” he said. Ireland arrive ranked fifth in the world and fresh from a third-place finish at the Women’s Six Nations, a standard de Bruin acknowledged will demand a strong response from his squad. “Those are the teams we need to compete against as we start building towards the next World Cup in 2029.”

Ireland head coach Scott Bemand welcomed the opportunity, saying the series underlines the value of the WXV Global Series for a team in development. “We’re excited to travel to Cape Town for a two-match series against South Africa, who are a strong and developing team and will provide an excellent challenge in a demanding environment,” he said.

The Ireland series forms part of a busy home schedule for South Africa. The Springboks will also face the USA Women’s Eagles in July before a high-profile clash against the Black Ferns at FNB Stadium in September.

De Bruin simultaneously confirmed the squad that will begin preparations for the Eagles matches. The core group is drawn from the side that competed at Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, though there are notable absences: veteran forward Nolusindiso Booi is not involved following her retirement, while Nadine Roos and Sinazo Mcatshulwa have been ruled out through injury.

There is a first call-up for Maria Tshiremba, who crossed for 36 tries for Cecil Afrika’s Springbok Women’s Sevens side this season, and recalls for Felicia Jacobs and Donelle Snyders after periods away from the squad.