The surge into the top ten on the world rankings at the last Women’s Rugby World Cup was one thing, but now the Springbok Women are driven to improve even further into the single digits of the pecking order in 2026.
That is the view of SA hooker Micke Gunter as the squad prepare for their first home test of the year, against the USA at Ellis Park in Johannesburg next weekend.
Gunter joined the squad in Stellenbosch at the start of the camp last week and felt immediately at ease, not only as she is familiar with her teammates, but the Boland town is also home of sorts, as she did a post graduate degree at Stellenbosch University and made her test debut at Danie Craven Stadium back in 2021.
“I was quite excited to be back in the squad, this is a very good group and the intensity in training is really high, something I like,” the Leicester Tigers Women’s player said.
“There was a bit of an adjustment from PWR (Premier Women’s Rugby) level to this, but that is what you want, this is an international squad after all. So yes, I am happy to be home of course and with the team.”
The 27-year-old Gunter played her 16th test against France at the Women’s Rugby World Cup last year and has hardly looked back, enjoying a productive first season with Leicester.
“Support for women's rugby in England is very good; it has grown as the World Cup approached and continued after that as well,” said Gunter.
“They manage to fill stadiums when the women play and that is great to experience. The vibe around games was great and that is something we can try and build here.”
Apart from moving up the world rankings, the setting of standards was another goal for the RWC quarterfinalists.
“We left the jersey in a very special place after the World Cup, but now we need to take it another step, to level up and take that jersey to an even better place,” explained Gunter.
“Fans can expect a great fight from this team, but also a drive to become better than we have ever been.”
It will not be easy against the USA, ranked eighth in the world, with many of their players fit and rugby ready after playing in the PWR.
“I have played with some of them and against those in other PWR teams,” said Gunter.
“They are good athletes and rugby players, and I believe it will be a good match-up. They will be looking at playing a fast, running game and fans normally loves that. We play our own brand, so it will be something to look forward to next weekend.”
The opportunity of playing double headers with the Springboks is not new, as they did it last year, but for Gunter it remains a highlight.
“We are very excited to play at home again and at such a wonderful stadium where the Springboks have achieved so much glory. We trained hard these last couple of weeks and will be looking for a positive performance and a good result. We will be ready and if there is a crowd to support us, it will be perfect."