Springbok Women aim to climb world rankings

The Springbok Women’s rugby team is determined to improve their world ranking, having recently reached the top ten at the last Women’s Rugby World Cup. The team aims to break into the single-digit ranks by 2026, as noted by hooker Micke Gunter. As the squad prepares for their first home Test of the year against the USA at Ellis Park in Johannesburg next weekend, Gunter expressed her excitement about rejoining the team. Having joined the squad in Stellenbosch at the start of the training camp, she felt comfortable being back in the town where she had previously studied and made her Test debut at Danie Craven Stadium in 2021.

Gunter, now 27, played her 16th Test against France during last year's Women’s Rugby World Cup and has enjoyed a successful initial season with Leicester Tigers Women. She remarked that support for women's rugby in England had grown significantly, especially as the World Cup approached, and highlighted the positive fan engagement experienced at games.

In addition to climbing the world rankings, setting new standards is another objective for the RWC quarter-finalists. Gunter commented on the need to elevate the team’s performance after leaving the jersey in a good position post-World Cup, emphasizing that the team must continue to improve. "Fans can expect a great fight from this team, but also a drive to become better than we have ever been," she stated.

The upcoming match against the USA, ranked eighth in the world, poses a challenge, as many of their players are fit and ready from their experiences in the Premier Women’s Rugby (PWR). Gunter noted her familiarity with some USA players, believing that the match will offer a compelling contest, especially with the fast-paced style of play expected from the opposition.

Reflecting on the opportunity to play double headers with the Springboks, Gunter expressed her enthusiasm for returning to a stadium rich with history and achievements. The team has trained rigorously over the past weeks and is poised for a positive performance in front of their home crowd. "We will be ready, and if there is a crowd to support us, it will be perfect," she concluded.