Final tweaks aside, a positive result will be massively important for the Springbok Women when they take on the Black Ferns XV at Athlone Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday, as this will be their final match before the Rugby World Cup starts in England next month.
That was the message of Franzel September, one of the team’s assistant coaches, after the Bok Women was put through their paces at the UCT Rugby Fields on Tuesday, with a strong focus on set pieces at the session.
“We need to get onto the plane knowing that we have all our ducks in a row and our plans tried and tested,” said September.
“To be fair, most of those are going really well and the progress in our last three matches is well documented, but what we did not get was a win. And that will be a very important boost for us.”
September was very proud of the way the Bok Women lineouts delivered two well-taken tries, but he said they are looking to vary play in their second consecutive match against the New Zealand opponents on Saturday.
Attacking the wider channels will be key as the #BokWomen look to finish their #RugbyWorldCup preparation on a high - more here: https://t.co/NXHeaTXTer 🙌#MakeItCount #PlusOne pic.twitter.com/5PCFgTvuYc
— SA Women's Rugby (@WomenBoks) July 29, 2025
“It is good to know that our set piece functions well, but we want to also try alternatives,” he said.
“We all know that our pack is a force in the game, but on Saturday we also want to include our backs in the game plan, especially our wings, who are proven finishers.
“We are not going away from our traditional strengths, but will rather look to expand our attacking options as well. After the two Canada tests, the Blacks Ferns XV showed us good pictures and we are happy with our progress and preparation for the World Cup, but now we need to close this out with a win.”
For the Bok Women players, who will face Brazil, Italy and France in their RWC pool matches, it will also be a final opportunity to showcase their growth in South Africa and the showdown in Athlone will be a motivational factor.
“Yes, the players have one more opportunity, at home, to show why they deserve support and encouragement come England next month,” said September.
“The crowd last week was great and to have another opportunity to have a go at the Black Ferns and to play in front of true fans is an opportunity we cannot let slip.”