Overview
- The matchday 23 was published for the WXV Global Series opener against Wales at Cardiff Arms Park with a 19:15 local kick-off on Friday, September 18.
- Babalwa Latsha will captain the side with Libbie Janse van Rensburg as vice-captain and Byrhandré Dolf named at fullback.
- Logan Welman starts at No.8 with Aseza Hele moved to the bench, Felicia Jacobs at scrumhalf, and Maria Tshiremba back in the starting backline after her hat-trick on debut against Fiji.
- The replacements feature a six‑two bench split that keeps props Xoliswa Khuzwayo and Nombuyekezo Mdliki and lock Nomsa Mokwai, and adds utility forward Sinelitha Noxeke for impact from the bench.
- Co-coaches Laurian Johannes-Haupt and Franzel September have overhauled the backline and say the WXV schedule is being used to broaden international experience and shape selection toward the 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cup.