Gqeberha wing Lithalethu Nombakuse is eager to make her national team debut as part of the inaugural South Africa A Women’s rugby squad in Brazil for a two-game series.
The team is set to play against Brazil A in Sao Paulo on Monday at 8pm (1am SA time) with the second fixture on Saturday.
Nombakuse said she was ready to put her nerves aside and make her debut for the country.
“I’m extremely excited. There are definitely some nerves because it’s a big step, but I think those nerves come from how much the opportunity means to me.
“I’m looking forward to putting everything I’ve worked on into practice, enjoying the experience and learning as much as I can.
“It’s honestly an incredible feeling and a huge honour to be part of something bigger than just myself.
“Being part of the first-ever SA Women’s A team means we are creating history, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity.
“It’s something I’ll always look back on with pride, and hopefully this is the beginning of many more opportunities for women’s rugby in South Africa.”
The SA Women’s A squad has an average age of 22 and consists of only eight Springbok-capped squad members.
Nombakuse, 21, said the Brazil games were an important opportunity for her and the other uncapped players to gain international experience
“We are a young group, and experiences like this are going to help us grow not only as players but also as people.
“Getting exposure to international rugby at this stage of our careers will give us confidence and teach us what it takes to compete at the highest level.
“I think this tour can be a great foundation for the future of women’s rugby in South Africa,” she said.
The backline player climbed the ranks rapidly, having started playing the game only in 2023.
“Everything has happened quickly, and that motivates me to keep learning and improving.
“Every opportunity reminds me how far I’ve come and motivates me to see how far I can still go,” she said.
In recent months, Nombakuse has been invited to train with the senior women’s team and the women’s rugby Sevens team.
Both opportunities have given her an experience of the competitive nature of preparing for international rugby.
“I’ve learnt a lot about professionalism, preparation and having confidence in my ability,” she said.
“They have also made me realise that I belong in those environments, but at the same time there is still a lot for me to learn.
“I’m grateful for every opportunity because each one helps me develop as a player.”
She is among a healthy representation of Eastern Cape players in the squad, joined by Zethu Gcaza, Emihle Mayitshe, Lilitha Vakalisa (all Border Ladies) and Yonda Nokwe (EP Queens).
“It’s really special having a few of us from the Eastern Cape here.
“There’s definitely a sense of familiarity, and we support each other a lot.
“We know where we come from and how much talent there is in the province, so it’s great to represent the Eastern Cape together on this stage.
“We also keep each other grounded and make sure we enjoy the experience along the way,” Nombakuse said.
Kazimla Mfikili
www.dispatchlive.co.za