The excitement is building as South Africa prepares to host the second instalment of WXV 2 later this year, with six of the world’s top women’s rugby teams set to converge on South African soil once again.
World Rugby announced the host venues for their three flagship annual women’s tournaments, with South Africa confirmed as the destination for WXV 2 in September and October.
Following the success of the inaugural women’s tournament held in and around Cape Town in 2023, SA Rugby is thrilled to welcome back the prestigious event.
Last year, Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch and Athlone Stadium in Cape Town played host to WXV 2, where Scotland emerged victorious ahead of Italy, South Africa, USA, Japan, and Samoa after three rounds of intense competition.
Qualification for WXV kicks off in March, with unions from around the world vying for 18 spots across the relevant levels through their regional competitions. For the Springbok Women, the pathway to WXV involves competing in the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in Madagascar in May.
Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, expressed pride in South Africa’s hosting capabilities and the growth of women’s rugby in the country.
“We have a proud history of successfully staging world-class events, and we are extremely proud to be hosting the WXV 2 for a second successive year,” said Oberholzer.
“Our very own Springbok Women delighted the home crowds in last year’s tournament, and we are confident that they will qualify for the 2024 showpiece.”
Sally Horrox, Chief of Women’s Rugby at World Rugby, highlighted the significance of WXV in growing the women’s game globally.
“It’s crucial that teams get sufficient preparation and game-time ahead of Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, and WXV is designed to help provide this for players and coaches alike,” said Horrox.
“Our hosts all share our ambition to take the tournament to the next level and further strengthen the development of the women’s game.”
With South Africa poised to once again showcase its passion for rugby and hospitality, WXV 2 promises to be a thrilling event that will inspire and elevate the women’s game on the world stage.
WXV 2 schedule 2024:
Date: 27 September to 13 October
Match days:
Round 1: Friday, 27 to Sunday, 29 September
Round 2: Friday, 4 to Sunday, 6 October
Round 3: Friday, 11 to Sunday, 13 October