SOUTH Africa Women assistant coach Franzel September says his side is expecting one of its toughest assignments in its Rugby World Cup preparations when it faces the Vodafone Fijiana XV today.
Speaking yesterday during the team’s captain’s run, September said the visitors had identified Fiji as an important benchmark on their road to the 2029 Rugby World Cup and could not afford to underestimate the challenge of playing the Fijiana on home soil.
“We know Fiji is a different beast at home, so we expect that it’s going to be a massive challenge for us,” September said.
The South Africans arrived in Fiji earlier this week and quickly shifted their focus to rugby after a long journey.
“First of all, it’s a massive privilege and honour to be here. We’re so grateful for this opportunity. The hospitality of the Fijians has been awesome and they’ve made us feel really welcome,” he said.
“But on Sunday afternoon we got stuck into rugby because we know exactly why we’re here.”
The fixture is another key step in South Africa’s long-term World Cup build-up, with the coaching staff using the tour to test combinations and expose players to different styles of rugby.
September expects Fiji to challenge his side with its physicality, attacking flair and ability to build momentum through quick ball movement.
“If you allow the Fijians to play their game, they’re good with ball in hand, they’re good defensively as well and they kick a bit too, so we need to stop the momentum.
“We need to make sure we play in the right areas of the field.”
Rather than changing their approach, South Africa will rely on the strengths that have shaped its identity.
“We’re a set-piece team and we know exactly what we’re good at. We can’t come here thinking things will just happen. We are prepared to work for it.”
The Springbok Women has been forced into one late change, with Alichia Arries replacing the injured Eloise Webb after Tuesday’s training session.
Despite the setback, September said every member of the 26-player touring squad has an important role to play throughout the tour.
He also welcomed the opportunity to play in front of a large crowd during Fiji’s secondary schools rugby competition, saying the atmosphere would provide another valuable test for his players.
“Rugby unites us in South Africa. If we can bring that to Fiji as well, why not? It’s part of the bigger picture,” he said.
