Springbok women maintain winning lineup ahead of Kenya Clash

by Lwandiso Simanga

The Springbok Women’s rugby team has named an unchanged starting lineup for their second Rugby Africa Women’s Cup match against Kenya. The match is scheduled for Wednesday, 11 June 2025 at Stade Makis in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

This decision follows a commanding 62-7 victory over Uganda in their opening fixture, showcasing the team’s strength and cohesion. Confident in their current squad, the coaching staff opted to maintain the same starting players to build on their momentum.

The only adjustment to the matchday squad is within the substitutions. Loose forward Nompumelelo Mathe returns to the bench, with wing Nomawethu Mabenge sitting out for this fixture. The Springboks’ bench will feature six forwards and two backs, reflecting the team’s strategy to maintain physicality against a strong Kenyan side.

image: Springbok official site

Kenya arrives after a 28-5 win over Madagascar, promising a physically demanding encounter. The Springbok Women’s focus remains on executing their game plan rather than dwelling on their opponents.

Patience Mokone, who made her international debut in the opening match by scoring two tries, expressed the significance of representing her country. “It was a great feeling to wear the Springbok jersey for the first time. Once I got settled, it became just another match, and now I am focused on what I can contribute to the team,” Mokone said.

image: Springbok official site

He added, “This is our next job, and we want to get it done. We have plans to execute and processes to follow. We focus on that, not our opponents.”

The Springbok Women aim to continue their strong start to the tournament by leveraging their experience and teamwork as they face Kenya in what promises to be a tough contest on the continental stage.