Can the Springbok Women climb the World Rugby Rankings this weekend?

South Africa face Ireland in the first of two home Tests in Cape Town on Saturday, 24 October.

Here’s what the statistics show ahead of these titanic WXV Global clashes in Athlone.

South Africa host world #5 at home

Fixture details

24 October – Springbok Women vs Ireland Women, Athlone Stadium, Cape Town (15:00).

31 October – Springbok Women vs Ireland Women, Athlone Stadium, Cape Town (15:00).

Details are correct according to the South Africa Rugby website.

Springbok Women vs Ireland form and head-to-head

The two nations have met just once before, during the 2006 Women’s Rugby World Cup.

In that clash 20 years ago, the Irish hammered South Africa 37-0, but a lot has changed since then.

The Springbok Women are now 10^th in the World Rugby Rankings, while Ireland went on to a best 4^th-place finish at the World Cup.

Both teams will be aiming to cap their WXV Global Series campaigns with statement victories.

Ireland have 1 win and 1 loss so far in the series.

They were beaten 36-40 by the United States in September, then defeated Japan 31-24 a week later.

The Springbok Women head into the double-header with more momentum.

South Africa were smashed 19-50 by Wales in September, before bouncing back with a 41-29 win over Italy.

They then dispatched Spain 20-0 in a clean performance in Seville.

South Africa coaches announce squad vs Ireland

Co-coaches Laurian Johannes-Haupt and Franzel September confirmed the squad earlier this month.

According to South Africa Rugby, scrumhalves Anacadia Minnaar and Insaaf Levy are included.

They will fill in for Felicia Jacobs and the injured Ayanda Malinga, respectively.

Captain Babalwa Latsha is out with an ankle injury – loose forward Sizophila Solontsi will lead the team in her stead.

Prop Nombuyekezo Mdliki will also miss out after sustaining a rib injury in the win over Spain earlier this month.

Utility forward Catha Jacobs believes Ireland will be a serious test for the Springbok Women.

As also cited by SA Rugby, she commented:

“They have a good set-piece, especially lineouts, and their players have a good skill set across the team. They also have a very good kicking game and will no doubt use that to put us under pressure.