The Springbok Women are quietly gaining momentum, and with the Rugby World Cup in England around the corner, there’s growing confidence that they’re no longer just participants – they’re contenders.

That’s the word from veteran scrumhalf Tayla Kinsey, as the squad regrouped in Cape Town ahead of back-to-back clashes against the Black Ferns which will help gauge their readiness for the global showpiece next month.

ALSO: SA Rugby ‘setting standard’ in promoting women’s rugby

South Africa are grouped with France, Italy and Brazil in Pool C, and while there’s no shortage of challenge in that trio, Kinsey says belief is rising within the Bok Women’s camp.

“We really saw that we are not that far behind the top teams and that did a lot for our belief going into the World Cup,” said 40-cap Kinsey.

The Bok Women took valuable lessons from their recent series against Canada, particularly in the second Test where they held their own against the world No 4.

Now, the focus shifts to the Black Ferns, a New Zealand squad stacked with international experience. Eight capped Black Ferns and three Sevens internationals are in the squad for the two matches at Athlone Stadium.

“The next two games will be a learning opportunity for us,” said Kinsey.

“The depth in New Zealand rugby is incredible, so we know it will be a massive challenge.”

The return of South Africa’s most capped hooker, Lindelwa Gwala, is another timely boost. Gwala missed the Canada series but is back in the mix as the team fine-tunes for England.

“When we play as a team, we can be unstoppable,” added Kinsey.

“That self-belief is growing every day.”

Saturday’s match at Athlone Stadium marks a return to what Kinsey calls the team’s “unofficial home ground” after last year’s WXV 2 tournament brought the Bok Women closer to the Cape Flats faithful.

“We’ve built a nice crowd at Athlone. Hopefully everyone comes back and brings a plus one!”

The match-day 23 will be named on Thursday.

Photo: Christiaan Kotze/Gallo Images