Overview

• South Africa named a largely refreshed XV with captain Nolusindiso Booi back among 10 changes and a 7–1 forwards-heavy bench, with Eloise Webb the only backline reserve.
• Fly-half Libbie Janse van Rensburg returns to start as Swys de Bruin leans into forward dominance after resting key players against France, including Zintle Mpupha and Ayanda Malinga.
• New Zealand restored No. 8 Kaipo Olsen-Baker to the starting side and listed Amy du Plessis on the bench, with Allan Bunting calling the group their strongest available 23.
• Maia Joseph starts at scrum-half with Theresa Setefano at inside centre and Jorja Miller on the flank, while Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and Braxton Sorensen-McGee occupy the wings.
• Quarter-finals kick off in Bristol and Exeter with eight teams remaining, following a pool phase highlighted by SVNS converts like Miller plus try-scoring feats from Woodman-Wickliffe and Canada’s Julia Schell.