CAPE TOWN – The Springbok Women are leaving no stone unturned as they gear up to face the Black Ferns XV in the second match of their international friendly series this Saturday at Athlone Stadium.
South Africa will aim to turn the tables after their 26-34 loss to New Zealand in the opening match last Saturday.
Putting in much-needed hard work during training this week, Swys de Bruin’s charges have focused on correcting the costly mistakes made in last week’s game.
Winger Ayanda Malinga understands what the Black Ferns will bring, but she believes now is not the time to be nervous.
Malinga, returning to the starting lineup this week after missing last weekend, will take her place on the left wing following her recovery from a shoulder strain.
“I hardly can even get nerves, I only get them game day,” said the experienced Malinga.
“So I think they are going to hit tomorrow [Saturday]. But, on the preparations heading to the World Cup, I feel like we are excited.
“So the plan is to just go out there tomorrow and enjoy every moment that we can before heading to the World Cup.”
With the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 just around the corner, Malinga believes a win against the Black Ferns XV will provide the team with a much-needed boost.
Malinga added that while they won’t underestimate the Black Ferns, she believes the Bok Women will pose a strong threat tomorrow.
“I feel like if we can have like good results tomorrow, we will have that confidence like heading to the World Cup, that we did prepare very well for it.”
“They have a good backline, they are very good, but I also think that we are capable of being good as well.
“So it’s just for us to stick to what we’re doing the whole week. And just stick to our processes and just go out there and do our best.”
The @WomenBoks photoshoot ahead of #BlackFernsXV tomorrow at Athlone Stadium. pic.twitter.com/h5b9DCDjMa
— Ayanda Frances Felem (@AyandaFelemZA) August 1, 2025
Image: @WomenBoks/Twitter.
