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Wales Move Keira Bevan to Fly-Half as Springboks Revamp Backline for WXV Opener

The selections are a tactical experiment designed to sharpen attacking options and broaden squad depth ahead of 2029 World Cup planning.

Overview

  • Wales named Keira Bevan to start at fly-half for the WXV Global Series opener, a positional switch from her usual scrum-half role that will be seen on Friday 18 September at Cardiff Arms Park.
  • The Wales match‑day 23 also includes three potential debutants — Amy Williams to start on the wing and Shanelle Williams plus Elan Jones on the bench — with Alex Callender and Kate Williams named co-captains.
  • South Africa’s co-coaches selected a refreshed backline with Libbie Janse van Rensburg at 10, Felicia Jacobs at 9 and Babalwa Latsha as captain, while Logan Welman starts at No. 8 in one change to the pack.
  • Referee Ella Goldsmith will oversee the fixture (kick-off 18:15 GMT/20:15 SAST) as both teams frame the game as a test of forward power and an opportunity to give playing time to squad players.
  • Coaches from both nations say the WXV window is being used to blood players and build depth for the longer term, a process that feeds directly into selection and preparation for the 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cup.