Cape Town - Cape Town is buzzing with excitement today as it hosts one of the most eagerly awaited events in rugby, the Women’s World Rugby WXV tournament.
The global event, now in its second year, kicks off today in the city, alongside Dubai and Vancouver.
The Springbok Women will open the tournament at the DHL Stadium at 4pm today against Japan, while Athlone Stadium will also be the centre for several thrilling games in October.
Tickets prices cost R100 for a set of four adult passes, R50 for two, or R35 each, making it easy for fans to catch some of the best women’s teams in action. Children aged 18 and under can attend for R10 each when accompanied by a paying adult.
The WXV tournament will feature nine matches from today until October 12, ensuring plenty of excitement for rugby fans.
Wales will face Italy at Athlone Stadium on October 4, followed by another thrilling match on October 5, where Japan will go up against Scotland at 2pm. Later that day, South Africa will take on Australia at 5pm, setting the stage for an exciting match.
Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, noted that last year’s tournament successfully created a family-friendly environment for enjoying top-notch international rugby, and he aims to build on that success.
“The Springbok Women play most of their rugby abroad and they got great support here last year.
“With the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England next year moving into view, this is a wonderful opportunity to support our players in a proper international competition,” he said.
JP Smith, the City’s mayco member for safety and security, expressed pride in the City’s involvement in a tournament that aims to elevate the profile of women’s rugby.
“I would like to urge our residents and visitors to show support to the teams by purchasing a ticket for as little as R35,” Smith said.
Ayanda Malinga, from South Africa, who is participating in her first World XV tournament, is returning to the DHL Stadium after her match against the Barbarians Women on September 7, when she impressively scored two tries. Malinga shared in a statement from SA Rugby that if the team sticks to their game plan and performs well, they will be a tough opponent.
“If I do that and do it well, we will have a chance to win the game. I really believe we are in with a good chance, especially with our current style of play where I know I will get the ball in space,” she said.
In the meantime, the third round is set to bring more excitement as Wales faces Japan again on October 11, followed by the Springbok Women competing against Italy the next day.
The rugby action will conclude with Australia going up against Scotland at 5pm, with all matches taking place at the Athlone Stadium.
Ricardo Mackenzie, the Western Cape MEC for Cultural Affairs and Sport, said hosting the rugby tournament is a significant achievement for the province and the beautiful city of Cape Town.
“Now we hope for a tournament win for our Springbok Women! I encourage people in Cape Town to go and support them at the opening game against Japan,” he said.