The Springbok Women team is prepared for a high-intensity challenge against the USA national team in a historic match to be held in Johannesburg. Player Byrhandré Dolf believes that participation in sevens added skills that will be useful in the series of test matches against the USA.
Team Preparation for the Match
Springbok Women believe that the combination of sevens experience, overseas appearances, and a more competitive domestic championship has prepared them for the confrontation with the higher-ranked USA team. This comes despite South Africa's limited recent schedule of test matches.
While the Eagles team tested their mettle against global giants such as New Zealand, Canada, and Australia during the Pacific Four Series this year, South Africa has not faced a Top-20 team since the last Women's Rugby World Cup in England.
Coaching View on Intensity
Assistant coach Franzel September insists that the Bok Women have found other ways to raise their level before the first match between the two nations on South African soil. He noted that during training sessions in recent weeks, they tried to increase intensity to simulate the level expected in the test games.
September stated that although it is not exactly the same, they will be ready for the game if the opponents want to play a fast and dynamic match. He also emphasized that the squad benefited from players participating in the Pick n Pay Women's Super League, overseas competitions, and the Springbok Women's Sevens program.
Player Experience and Goals
Among the 30-player squad, 22 of whom participated in the last World Cup, September added that the group quickly regained its rhythm. He noted that the team knows the capabilities of the USA as a collective and has an idea of their playing style, but ultimately success will depend on their own performance this coming weekend.
Byrhandré Dolf is an example of development through different sports. This dynamic forward, who scored a record 27 points for South Africa at the last World Cup, returned from participating in the national sevens, believing that the short format added new dimensions to her game. She noted that she particularly enjoyed acquiring the habit of creating and finding space, which improved her footwork and acceleration.
Dolf admitted that due to her sevens commitments, she is unlikely to immediately return to reliable kicking duties, as experienced kickers are Libby Jansen van Rensburg and Jackie Silliers. Instead, her goal is to influence play while in possession and help South Africa achieve a convincing victory over one of the world's leading teams. She added that the team draws energy from the fans, and they will need that support against such a strong team as the USA.
