Home Soil, Big Dreams: Springbok Women Call for Gqeberha Crowd Ahead of Canada Clash

Springbok Women’s prop Babalwa Latsha has a simple but powerful message for South African rugby fans: come through for your girls this weekend.

As the national women’s rugby team prepares for a rematch against world number two Canada at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, Latsha is calling on Eastern Cape supporters to show up in numbers and turn the venue into a fortress.

“It’s not just another test match,” says the 31-year-old prop. “It’s a homecoming for many of us.”

A Special Moment for the Eastern Cape

For the players who hail from the Eastern Cape — one of the heartlands of South African rugby — Saturday’s clash is personal. It’s a rare and emotional chance to don the green and gold on home turf in front of friends, family, and fans.

“To play on Eastern Cape soil is really special. For some of our girls, this is their community, their people. It’s an exciting occasion for the entire group,” Latsha told the media in the build-up to the match.

Building Momentum for Women’s Rugby

Last weekend, the Springbok Women squared off against Canada at Loftus Versfeld, curtain-raising before the Springboks’ clash with Italy. The scoreboard wasn’t flattering — South Africa suffered a 50-20 defeat — but Latsha believes the bigger picture is what matters most.

“Women’s rugby in South Africa is growing tremendously. We’ve come a long way, and we’re on a journey to something special. That’s why we need people to keep watching, following, and supporting.”

Lessons learned, eyes on the World Cup

While head coach Swys de Bruin raised concerns about officiating at the breakdown in the previous test, Latsha says the team has doubled down in training this week, sharpening key areas ahead of the return leg.

The Canada match is more than a standalone event — it’s crucial preparation for what lies ahead. The Springbok Women are gearing up for a challenging double-header against New Zealand on July 26 and August 2, all part of their lead-up to the Women’s Rugby World Cup next month.

Canada, ranked second in the world and brimming with experience, exposed the gap last week. But that hasn’t shaken the Bok Women’s fighting spirit.

“This is how you get better,” says Latsha. “You face the best. You test yourself. And you do it with your country behind you.”

Why Gqeberha’s Support Matters

Rugby fans in the Eastern Cape have a long history of passion and pride, from the days of Despatch and Danie Gerber to today’s EP Rugby and grassroots development hubs. Now, that same spirit is being called on to uplift the women’s game.

With momentum building and the World Cup just around the corner, Saturday’s game is more than just a rematch — it’s a statement.

So, Who Will Answer the Call?

Kick-off at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is expected to draw a lively crowd. If Babalwa Latsha has her way, the stands will be loud, proud, and painted green and gold.

“This is women’s rugby in South Africa,” she says. “And we’re just getting started.”

Source:SABC Sport

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