Cape Town | Stethoscope in one hand, rugby boots in the other, newly qualified medical doctor Insaaf Levy is preparing to tackle one of the toughest fixtures on her professional calendar: balancing the demands of medicine with the bruising business of international rugby.
The DHL Western Province player has been called into the Springbok Women squad for their two-Test showdown against world No 5 Ireland at Athlone Stadium on Saturday 24 and 31 October, adding a compelling human-interest story to South Africa’s quest for a winning finish to the season.
For Levy, who has two Test caps, the challenge extends beyond breaking through Ireland’s defensive line. Her medical career and rugby ambitions demand discipline, sacrifice and careful time management, with both professions requiring precision when the pressure is on.
She replaces the injured Ayanda Malinga in the squad announced by co-coaches Laurian Johannes-Haupt and Franzel September. Anacadia Minnaar also returns after missing the recent European tour, taking the place of Felicia Jacobs.
Levy featured in two of South Africa’s three Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Tests in Kenya in May before touring Brazil with the SA Women A side in August. Her latest call-up brings her closer to the international action as the Springbok Women prepare for a formidable Irish examination.
From stethoscope to Springbok scrumhalf: Dr Insaaf Levy charts historic Bok Women path
The coaching staff have opted for continuity after the team finished its demanding European tour with victories over Italy and Spain, following consecutive weekend Tests against Wales, Italy and Spain.
“We opted for continuity as we have good momentum from the last couple of matches on tour, hence the call to stay with the same group of players,” Johannes-Haupt said.
She welcomed both additions, explaining:
“Anacadia could unfortunately not travel to Europe, but we are happy to have her back, while we also want to bring Insaaf closer to the action and tap into her skill set.”
Ireland, ranked fifth in the world, will bring heavyweight credentials to Athlone, where South Africa hope home-ground familiarity can provide the perfect springboard.
“Ireland are not the fifth-ranked team in the world for nothing. They will really test us,” Johannes-Haupt warned.
The two Tests will conclude South Africa’s 2026 WXV Global Series, giving the hosts an opportunity to turn their European momentum into a strong home finish.
“We are pleased on how the season progressed and want to finish it strong at home,” Johannes-Haupt said.
“Athlone Stadium has been a happy hunting ground for us in recent years and it is a perfect setting for us to close out the season.”
Levy’s selection shines a light on the demanding reality facing athletes who pursue professional sport alongside another career. Medicine calls for a cool head and meticulous attention to detail; rugby demands courage, split-second decisions and a willingness to put the body on the line.
For the aspiring international regular, the next assignment is clear: manage the competing demands, seize the opportunity and help the Bok Women finish their campaign with a flourish.
Both Tests kick off at 15:00.
Tickets are available per match exclusively through Ticketmaster: https://springboks.tmtickets.co.za/Events.
Springbok Women squad for Ireland Tests:
Springbok Women squad
Forwards: Aseza Hele, Logan Welman, Lerato Makua, Sizophila Solontsi, Catha Jacobs, Aphiwe Ngwevu, Sinelitha Noxeke, Nomsa Mokwai, Danelle Lochner, Vainah Ubisi, Babalwa Latsha (c), Nombuyekezo Mdliki, Xoliswa Khuzwayo, Yonela Ngxingolo, Sanelisiwe Charlie, Anushka Groenewald, Lindelwa Gwala, Micke Gunter.
Backs: Jakkie Cilliers, Alichia Arries, Patience Mokone, Maria Tshiremba, Maceala Samboya, Naima Hlatshwayo, Shiniqwa Lamprecht, Byrhandré Dolf, Mary Zulu, Unam Tose, Anacadia Minnaar, Insaaf Levy.
