Logan Welman moves into the starting line-up at No 8, swapping places with Aseza Hele, who will provide cover from the bench. The change is the only adjustment to the forward pack.
There are, however, several changes among the backs. Felicia Jacobs and Maria Tshiremba return to the starting XV after missing the recent clash against New Zealand. Both players featured against Fiji last month, with Tshiremba making an immediate impact by scoring a hat-trick on debut.
Maceala Samboya retains her position at outside centre after initially starting on the bench against the Black Ferns before replacing the injured Zintle Mpupha. She will partner Aphiwe Ngwevu in midfield.
The Springbok Women have also opted for a different look on the bench, with props Xoliswa Khuzwayo and Nombuyekezo Mdliki, along with lock Nomsa Mokwai, the only players retained.
Utility forward Sinelitha Noxeke has been included as part of a six-two forwards-to-backs split, adding further strength to the pack. Jakkie Cilliers and Patience Mokone provide backline cover, with Cilliers set to serve as the back-up scrumhalf.
The match will be the first meeting between the Springbok Women and Wales since 2021.
Babalwa Latsha will captain the side, continuing her leadership role on a ground that holds special significance for the experienced prop. Latsha made her Springbok Women debut at Cardiff Arms Park in 2018.
Vice-captain Libbie Janse van Rensburg will also return to the venue where she scored a try during the Springbok Women’s last appearance there in 2021.
Springbok Women co-coach Franzel September said the changes were part of the team’s broader plan to build squad depth and give players more opportunities to start at Test level.
“We are well underway towards the 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cup, not only in our planning, but also giving players experience at the highest level, something that this WXV Global Series will provide,” said September.
“This opening weekend is important for us, as we need to set the tone for the remaining two matches. So, we kept to what we know but also recognise that we need to expand our base.”
September expects a physical contest, particularly in the set pieces, with both teams known for their strength among the forwards.
“Yes, it will be huge in the set phases, as both of us are strong in that department. I am happy with our progress in that area of our game in the eight matches we have played this year, but we know Wales will ask different questions here in Cardiff. We prepared well and will be ready for the challenge,” he said.
The match also brings several notable milestones for the Springbok Women.
Latsha is the most capped tighthead prop in Springbok Women’s history, while Lindelwa Gwala holds the record for the most Test appearances by a Springbok Women hooker since the team played its first Test against Wales in Port Elizabeth in 2004.
Ngwevu has also made more Test appearances at inside centre than any of her current teammates, while Janse van Rensburg could add to her record tally of 221 Test points.
For Tshiremba, Mokone and Welman, meanwhile, Friday’s encounter will mark their first WXV campaign as they continue to gain valuable international experience.
The Springbok Women will be looking to start their WXV Global Series campaign strongly as they face Wales in Cardiff on Friday.