Springbok Women Prepare for WXV Global Series After De Bruin's Exit
Coaches Johannes-Haupt and September take charge temporarily amid transition.
The Full Story
The resignation of Swys de Bruin as head coach of the Springbok Women has left the team in a transitional phase as they approach the WXV Global Series. With less than two weeks since de Bruin stepped down, South African Rugby has yet to announce a permanent replacement, leaving interim coaches Laurian Johannes-Haupt and Franzel September at the helm. Their leadership will be tested significantly in the upcoming matches.
Since de Bruin's departure on 3 September, no public statements have been made by SA Rugby, who confirmed Johannes-Haupt and September's roles as co-coaches. The pair faces their first major task in leading the team against New Zealand's Black Ferns, for which they prepared diligently leading to a disappointing 52-20 loss last week in Soweto. Despite the setback, their previous success, including an unbeaten run at the 2026 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup and a victory over Fiji, suggests they have the capacity to guide the Springbok Women effectively.
Despite the loss, the focus remains on the upcoming fixtures in the WXV Global Series, which could significantly impact the futures of the interim coaches. The Springbok Women will face Wales, Italy, Spain, and Ireland in quick succession: - Vs Wales at Cardiff Arms Park on 12 September - Vs Italy at Stadio Omero Tognon on 17 September - Vs Spain at Estadio Olimpico de la Cartuja on 24 September - Vs Ireland at Athlone Sports Stadium on 1 October As they gear up for these crucial matches, Johannes-Haupt and September have a lot to prove. The stakes are high, with their performances under scrutiny and the potential for a permanent coaching appointment on the horizon.
Their ability to rally the team and produce positive results will ultimately determine not just the team's success, but their own futures in the coaching structure of South African women’s rugby. The outcome of these fixtures may very well shape the direction of the Springbok Women's team for years to come. Johannes-Haupt and September have time to validate their capabilities and show that they can lead the team to success amid a challenging and competitive landscape. With the future at stake, all eyes will be on them this September as the Springbok Women take the field against some formidable opponents in the WXV Global Series, embarking on a crucial journey that could redefine their path forward in women’s rugby.
Upcoming matches will be vital as the team aims to come out strong, propelling South Africa into a new era with or without de Bruin at the helm. Details correct according to the WXV Global Series website. Visit: https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/rugby/springbok-women-who-could-succeed-de-bruin-as-wxv-global-series-looms/ for more information on the Springbok Women's fixtures and updates on their performances in the WXV Global Series. Published on September 10, 2026, by The South African.
Why It Matters
The leadership transition within the Springbok Women’s team amid the WXV Global Series is critical as they strive for international competitiveness and growth in women’s rugby. The outcomes of these matches could shape the future of the coaching staff and the team.
What's Next
The Springbok Women will face crucial test matches against notable teams in the WXV Global Series, starting with Wales on 12 September and continuing through to Ireland on 1 October. Results will significantly impact their rankings and future coaching decisions.