Babalwa Latsha is ready to lead the Springbok Women into a brand-new Rugby World Cup cycle as permanent captain, starting with Saturday's historic Test against the US at Ellis Park. Photo: Backpagepix
Babalwa Latsha insists her appointment as Springbok Women's captain is not about ushering in a new era, but ensuring the momentum created over recent seasons continues as South Africa embarks on the next Women's Rugby World Cup cycle.
The experienced tighthead prop has officially succeeded long-serving skipper Nolusindiso Booi, whose retirement at the end of last season brought to a close one of the most influential leadership spells in the history of the Springbok Women.
Having previously captained South Africa on 15 occasions, Latsha will now take on the role permanently, leading the team into Saturday's historic Test against the US at Ellis Park. It will also be a landmark occasion personally as she wins her 41st Test cap, extending her record as the Springbok Women's most-capped tighthead prop.
For head coach Swys de Bruin, who took charge after last year's Rugby World Cup, the decision required little deliberation. Having worked closely with Latsha over the past season, he believes she has already established herself as the squad's natural leader.
