The head coach of the Springbok Women team, Swiss de Bruin, has formed a squad that largely remains unchanged to face the USA Eagles team at Loftus Versfeld stadium. In this setup, Eloise Webb has been given the opportunity to start at fullback.
Changes in the Starting Lineup
De Bruin expresses confidence that the versatile backline player Eloise Webb can easily replace Bayrandri Dol, who is resting. He named a stable starting lineup for the second test, scheduled for Saturday against the USA at Loftus Versfeld. Webb, who showed a confident performance from the bench during the recent historic 34-21 victory at Ellis Park, will now take the fullback position—this is the only change in the starting fifteen-player formation.
Dol remains unavailable due to mandatory player welfare protocols following an intense two-code season, which included intensive Springbok Women’s Sevens activities.
Webb's Playing Style
De Bruin emphasized that Eloise is a player capable of playing any position. He noted that she is a hybrid player who is comfortable in the central line, at positions nine, ten, and fifteen, making her move to fullback a very simple transition.
In addition to this one forced change in the backline, De Bruin decided to keep the core of the team, which outperformed the American team, ranked eighth in the standings, during the first match in Johannesburg. The coach added that he appreciates the stability, as the team remains essentially the same.
Bench Changes
Despite the familiar starting lineup, the coaching staff made adjustments to the bench, implementing five tactical changes. This is done to continue demonstrating the depth of the 30-player squad within elite test rugby. Masela Samboya returned to the matchday 23 squad for the first time since earning her seventh international cap during the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals last year against New Zealand in Exeter. This dynamic backline player takes Webb's place among the versatile reserves.
Lerato Makua also returned to the matchday squad for the first time this year, having been part of the World Cup squad. The bench update was completed by including midfielder Ankadie Minnar, locker room member Nomsa Mokwai, and forward Nombuyekezo Mdliki.
