The Springbok Women rugby team arrived in Seville, Spain on Sunday, but without two key players, Libbie Janse van Rensburg and Ayanda Malinga, who returned to South Africa for further medical treatment and observations. Janse van Rensburg injured her ankle during Saturday's 41-29 win over Italy, while Malinga is struggling with a knee injury sustained in a match against Wales a week ago. Their absence has prompted the call-up of Mary Zulu to the squad.
Mary Zulu, a 23-year-old flyhalf, will join the Springbok Women squad on Monday to provide cover for the team's upcoming match against Spain. Zulu last played for the team in the Rugby Africa Women's Cup in Kenya in May and has since been part of the squad that played at the Women's Rugby World Cup in England last year. She has played in 18 Tests, scoring 45 points, and also captained the South African Women's 'A'-side to Brazil last month.
Another player, Byrhandré Dolf, who started the Italy match at flyhalf but left the field on Saturday for a head injury assessment, will complete her HIA 3 protocols on Monday. A decision on her availability for the WXV Global Series Test against Spain will be made after the completion of the protocols. The match against Spain on Sunday will be the final match in the three-week WXV Global Series tour for the Springbok Women.
The Springbok Women will start their preparations for the Test against Spain on Monday. The team will be looking to build on their recent win over Italy, which was a significant result for the team. The WXV Global Series tour has been an important part of the team's preparations for the 2026 season, which will conclude with a two-Test series against Ireland in Cape Town next month.
Zulu's call-up to the squad is a significant one, given her experience and skills as a flyhalf. She made her Test debut against Spain in Madrid and has since become an important member of the team. Her ability to provide cover for the team will be crucial in the upcoming match against Spain.
The Springbok Women's team has had a busy year, with a number of important matches and tours. The team has been working hard to build their skills and prepare for the challenges ahead. The WXV Global Series tour has provided an opportunity for the team to test themselves against top-level opposition and build their experience.
The match against Spain on Sunday will be an important one for the Springbok Women, as they look to conclude their WXV Global Series tour on a positive note. The team will be looking to build on their recent performances and make a strong impression against Spain. With Zulu joining the squad, the team will have added depth and experience to draw on.
Key points
- Mary Zulu has been called up to the Springbok Women squad in Spain to provide flyhalf cover.
- Libbie Janse van Rensburg and Ayanda Malinga have returned to South Africa for further medical treatment and observations.
- The Springbok Women will conclude their 2026 season with a two-Test series against Ireland in Cape Town next month.
