The Springbok Women will be determined to continue with their improved performance cycle when they face Fiji for a second time in a week, and to be able to be successful, they will need to execute a mindset of reset and go again.
That is the view of Bok Women captain Babalwa Latsha as they finished their preparations for their second Test against the Fijiana XV, this time at Churchill Park in Lautoka. The match will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
South Africa won the first clash by 55-12 last Saturday in Suva, but Latsha was clear about their mindset: “That result is in the past, and we start afresh.”
The Springbok Women fell away in their second Test against the USA Eagles Women last month after dominating the first clash, and Latsha is adamant that this can’t happen again.
“How we start is of absolute importance – we need to execute every time we are in striking distance and make sure we do not let them into the match,” she said.
“Fiji are a formidable side; they showed us what they can do with the ease they scored in the first Test. They have some heavy hitters and runners in that pack, but that is something we will be looking forward to, as we like the physical battles.”
Latsha missed the first Test and cannot wait to lead the Bok Women onto the field on Saturday: “It is always a special moment to lead this team into battle. We prepared well and are aligned on our objectives for this match. We look forward to this challenge Fiji will throw at us and want to make it a clean sweep.
“This has been a 26-woman squad effort; even those who do not play this weekend had something to contribute. We are a collective, and that is how we approach each game; we certainly back every player on the field.”
It will be a special day for Maria Tshiremba, who will make her Test debut, and Latsha said they are as excited for her as the speedster is herself.
“With regards to Maria, we cannot wait to see her play,” said Latsha. “It is always special to be part of any player’s first cap, and I can see her play many more. She must just go out there and showcase her talents; we have her back for sure.”
Latsha said they know that many people woke up early to watch them play a week ago and hope it will again be the case.
“We are very appreciative of those who will get up early to watch us play,” she said. “We appreciate your eyes on the screen and bums on the seats. We certainly play for you as well as for the Springbok badge. We will be challenged for sure, but we also play for the country, and that motivates us.”
