By 
STELLENBOSCH – The future of South African women’s rugby is taking center stage as the Junior Springbok Women officially return to action this July. SA Rugby has confirmed a historic two-match series to be played in the rugby stronghold of Stellenbosch on July 17 and 24, 2026, marking the U20 national side’s first competitive appearances since 2024.
The high-performance pathway has already proven its worth. Five players from the 2024 squad—Anushka Groenewald, Leigh Fortuin, Naima Hlatshwayo, Dineo Ndhlovu, and Anuschka Ekron—have since graduated to earn senior Springbok Women caps, while Jané Mulder has successfully transitioned to the Sevens squad.
Domestic Dominance Rewards WP
Unsurprisingly, the selection heavily rewards form the recent SA Rugby U20 Women’s Week in Alberton. Champions Western Province dominate the 36-player training squad with 11 representatives after an undefeated tournament run. Finalists Eastern Province have secured five slots, while Boland, the Golden Lions, and Griquas each contribute four players.
Among the standout individual call-ups is Limpopo Blue Bulls hooker Vanessa Gabadi, whose explosive six-try tally in just three matches during the Alberton tournament made her selection undeniable.
A Wealth of Senior and Varsity Experience
This training camp blends raw youth with seasoned competitive experience. Highlighting the depth of talent, several players arrive with senior exposure:
- Pick n Pay Women’s Super League: Julene Haas (EP Queens), Siphumelele Mdlalose (Golden Lions), and Tereské Kabuika (Boland Dames) have all featured at the elite domestic level this season.
- FNB Varsity Cup: University standouts Erin Prins (UP-Tuks), Sesethu Dumke (Maties), and Iviwe Jonas (UWC) earned invitations following impressive collegiate campaigns.
Coaching Update: While SA Rugby finalizes the appointment of a permanent head coach for the Junior Springbok Women, the high-stakes camp is being overseen by the experienced Bafana Nhleko from SA Rugby’s elite Mobi-Unit.
With a clear pathway to the senior national team established, these July fixtures represent a massive opportunity for South Africa’s brightest young talent to stake their claim on the international stage.
