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Springbok Women’s captain Nolusindiso Booi says she wants to give everything in what will be her final Rugby World Cup campaign.
South Africa face defending champions New Zealand in Sunday’s quarterfinal at Sandy Park in Exeter.
The 40-year-old lock will extend her record as the most-capped Springbok Women’s player with 55 Test appearances, while also captaining the side for the 26th time, both South African records.
Booi says she is determined to finish her career on a high.
"This is my last World Cup, so for me it's about giving my all because I know that I may never touch a rugby ball again.
"For us as a team, we know this match is massive, and everyone will be emptying the tank."
Head coach Swys de Bruin has opted for a bold 7–1 forwards-to-backs bench split for the clash, banking on his pack to make an impact in South Africa’s first-ever World Cup knockout match.
The Springbok Women have faced the Black Ferns only once before at a Rugby World Cup, when New Zealand cruised to a 55–3 victory in 2010.
Booi admits the nerves are setting in, but insists the Boks are not in England just to make up the numbers.
New Zealand come into the contest as six-time world champions, while South Africa are still chasing a maiden knockout win at the global showpiece.
The Boks failed to qualify in 2017 and lost all their matches in 2022.
Booi says the team understands the enormity of the challenge, but believes the experience will be crucial in building for the future of women’s rugby in South Africa.
"Coach always talks about miracles, and I believe we have a strong enough pack to shock New Zealand."
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