Family friendly

Springbok Women vs Black Ferns XVs

By South African Rugby Union

Sat Jul 26, 17:00 - Sat Aug 2, 19:00

Athlone Stadium

ABOUT

The Springbok Women are ‘returning home’ to Athlone Stadium on 26 July and 2 August for their final two warm-up matches to the Rugby World Cup in England.


They will face Brazil in their opening match on 24 August, but before that showdown at Franklin's Gardens, Northampton, their fans have a brilliant opportunity to see them play in real time when they take on the illustrious New Zealand Blacks Ferns XV in two action-packed matches.


The Blacks Ferns are the defending Rugby World Cup champions and unbeaten this year and this trip will be a final push towards RWC selection for the Black Ferns XV squad, guaranteed to have a number of household names in their group, such is the depth of the New Zealand squad.


Event Timings

Gates Open 15h00

Kick Off 17h00


Athlone Stadium Rules

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone making their way to Athlone Stadium, here’s a reminder of the prohibited items list:


  1. No weapons
  2. Illegal substances
  3. Glass containers
  4. Large umbrellas
  5. Alcohol
  6. Spray
  7. Perfumes
  8. Chairs (fold up or otherwise)
  9. Laser pointers
  10. Noise-making devices (air horns, whistles)
  11. Selfie sticks
  12. Professional cameras with detachable lenses
  13. Vulgar language, violence, political engagements, as well as provocative or illicit actions are also prohibited.


TEAMS

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Springbok Women’s

The Springbok Women are South Africa’s national women’s rugby union team, representing the country in international competitions. Their journey began in 2004, and they have since participated in four Women's Rugby World Cups, debuting in 2006. The team has achieved notable success, including winning the Rugby Africa Women's Cup in 2019 and 2022, and qualifying for the 2025 World Cup in England.


Under the guidance of performance coach Swys de Bruin, appointed in August 2024, the Springbok Women have shown significant growth both on and off the field. De Bruin, known for his tenure with the Lions and as an assistant coach with the Springboks, has emphasized developing a more dynamic and adaptable playing style. His coaching staff includes experienced professionals such as Bafana Nhleko, Laurian Johannes-Haupt, and Franzel September, who have contributed to the team's strategic development


The team's recent performances have been promising. In 2024, they secured victories over the Barbarians, Spain, and Japan. They also came close to drawing with Australia and narrowly lost to Italy during the WXV 2 tournament. Fullback Libbie Janse van Rensburg made history by becoming the first South African woman to score over 200 points in international rugby


The Springbok Women are currently ranked 12th globally. While they face challenges such as limited domestic competition and the need for improved conditioning, their trajectory suggests a bright future. With continued support and development, they aim to make a significant impact on the world stage in the upcoming World Cup.

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Black Ferns XVs

The Black Ferns XVs are New Zealand's premier women's rugby union team, renowned for their dominance in international rugby. Since their inception in 1989, they have established themselves as a powerhouse in the sport.


In May 2025, the Black Ferns reclaimed the Pacific Four Series title with a commanding 79–14 victory over the United States, highlighted by Portia Woodman-Wickliffe's record-breaking seven tries in a single match .


With the 2025 Rugby World Cup on the horizon, the Black Ferns remain a formidable force in women's rugby, driven by a legacy of excellence and a commitment to inspiring future generations.

DIRECTIONS

Springbok Women vs Black Ferns XVs
Athlone Stadium
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