Springbok Women head coach Swys de Bruin has named Babalwa Latsha as captain for the 2026 season, citing her rugby intelligence and leadership instincts as the defining factors in his decision.
Latsha steps into the role following Nolusindiso Booi's retirement at the end of last season. The most-capped Springbok Women tighthead prop, she has captained the side on 15 previous occasions, with Saturday's Test against the USA at Ellis Park marking her first assignment as permanent skipper. Libby Janse van Rensburg has been named vice-captain.
De Bruin, who took over as head coach in 2024, pointed to a moment during last year's WXV tournament at Athlone Stadium as the point at which Latsha's leadership credentials became undeniable.
"What I enjoy about Babalwa, on and off the field, is her rugby knowledge is really second to none," De Bruin said. "If she speaks, everyone listens. Then you listen."
He highlighted her timing as a particular strength. "To say the right thing — that's a mark of a leader. Just waffle, and you'll block a lot of that."
Latsha, 32, acknowledged the weight of the responsibility while crediting the legacy of her predecessor. "Cindy was my confidante and a good friend, an incredible leader. She always puts the team first — selfless. Those are gems I was able to receive from her."
Latsha was the first African woman to sign a professional rugby contract when she joined Spanish club SD Eibar Femenino in 2020. After returning to South Africa in 2021 and representing Western Province, she signed with Harlequins in 2023, making 29 appearances for the Premiership club and scoring in their semi-final in March. She returned to South Africa ahead of the World Cup in 2025 and is again playing for Western Province.