VIDEO: Swys explains his backline shuffle ahead of Italian job
Springbok Women head coach Swys de Bruin has opened up about the tactical shifts in his backline ahead of Sunday’s must-win match against Italy.
De Bruin has made a number of changes following the team’s dominant 66–6 victory over Brazil, including moving Nadine Roos from scrumhalf to fullback.
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Roos will start at No. 15, while Unam Tose takes over at scrumhalf (No. 9). The switch also sees Byrhandré Dolf shift from fullback to wing.
The 22-year-old Dolf was one of the standout performers against Brazil, kicking eight conversions in her World Cup debut. However, her fitness had been in question during the week.
“Selection was interesting this week,” De Bruin said.
“Nadine did so well at nine. But because of that specific reason, we decided to move her to 15, because firstly, Unam did very well when she came on at nine, and we waited until today for an injury update on Dolf,” De Bruin said.
“That’s the only injury we had – but she came through and she’s going to start.”
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In a bold midfield call, the in-form Aphiwe Ngwevu moves to the bench, with Chumisa Qawe starting at inside centre.
“It sounds like a cliché, but it’s horses for courses,” De Bruin said.
“Aphiwe and Chumisa bring something different. It’s often not the best players starting—it’s about getting the right combinations off the bench.”
Jakkie Cilliers also misses out, with Border’s Eloise Webb named on the bench.
“We’re very blessed with two strong 12-centres,” he stated.
“With Eloise on the bench as well, we’re looking at permutations and combinations.”
