Springbok Women’s Sevens Recall Veteran Trio for Crucial HSBC SVNS 2024

Solontsi and Janse van Rensburg showcased their prowess in last year’s World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series, instrumental in securing South Africa's qualification for the HSBC SVNS Series.

As the Springbok Women’s Sevens squad gears up for the pivotal HSBC SVNS 2024 play-off tournament in Madrid, Head Coach Renfred Dazel has made strategic moves, recalling three seasoned players to bolster the team's chances. Former captain Sizophila Solontsi, playmaker Libbie Janse van Rensburg, and wing Veroeshka Grain have all received the nod from Dazel, signaling a shift towards experience in this high-stakes event. Additionally, Byrhandrѐ Dolf joins the squad, rounding out the quartet of changes from the previous tournament in Singapore.

Solontsi and Janse van Rensburg showcased their prowess in last year’s World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series, instrumental in securing South Africa's qualification for the HSBC SVNS Series. Meanwhile, Grain and Dolf return to the fold after their last appearances in Cape Town and Perth respectively. Notably, Janse van Rensburg had been sidelined due to a groin injury sustained during the Dubai leg, but has since completed her rehabilitation, ready to contribute to the team's efforts in Madrid.

Coach Dazel emphasized the importance of experience in his selection process, particularly with the looming Olympics on the horizon. "Injuries sidelined Libbie and Sizo earlier in the campaign, but their contributions cannot be understated," stated Dazel. He also highlighted the commitment shown by Dolf and Grain in previous outings, noting their dedication to the team's cause.

Looking ahead to the tournament, Dazel acknowledged the challenges awaiting his squad, but expressed confidence in their abilities. "Retaining our core status next season is paramount, and the experience brought in by these players will be invaluable," he remarked. With a tough pool featuring familiar opponents like Belgium, Brazil, and Argentina, Dazel emphasized the importance of preparation and adaptability. "Each team brings its own style, but we've trained meticulously to counter their strengths," he added.

As the Springbok Women’s Sevens squad sets its sights on success in Madrid, Dazel remains optimistic, citing the team's hard work and unity as key factors in their pursuit of victory. With qualification for next season's series at stake, the stage is set for an intense battle, but with a clear plan and determined mindset, South Africa is ready to rise to the challenge.

Pool fixtures:

 

Friday 31 May

12h00: Argentina

15h06: Belgium

 

Saturday 1 June

13h51: Brazil

 

Springbok Women’s Sevens squad for Madrid:

#10 Mathrin Simmers (co-captain) - 20 tournaments, 35 points (7 tries)

#4 Zintle Mpupha (co-captain) - 11 tournaments, 55 points (11 tries)

#7 Eloise Webb – 8 tournaments, 7 points (1 try, 1 conversion)

#17 Sizophila Solontsi – 2 tournaments

#96 Libbie Janse van Rensburg - 1 tournament, 0 points

#12 Liske Lategan – 9 tournaments, 15 points: (3 tries)

#16 Maria Tshiremba - 5 tournaments, 35 points (7 tries)

#9 Nadine Roos - 12 tournaments, 207 points (27 tries, 36 conversions)

#21 Byrhandrѐ Dolf – 2 tournaments, 0 points

#24 Veroeshka Grain – 11 tournaments, 85 points (17 tries)

#13 Kemisetso Baloyi - 7 tournaments, 0 points

#3 Ayanda Malinga - 7 tournaments, 65 points (12 tries)

#18 Shiniqwa Lamprecht - 7 tournaments, 0 points