World Cup Winner Duane Vermeulen Joins Springbok Women Camp to Bolster International Preparations

Springbok legend Duane Vermeulen joins the women's alignment camp in Stellenbosch to prepare for a 2026 schedule featuring the USA and Black Ferns.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 17, 2026, 5:53 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

Elite Knowledge Transfer in Stellenbosch

The Springbok Women have received a significant boost to their coaching department with the arrival of two,time World Cup winner Duane Vermeulen at their current alignment camp. According to team reports, Vermeulen has been actively sharing his technical expertise and physicality with the squad in Stellenbosch, specifically focusing on the development of the forward unit. This collaborative effort represents a strategic move by the national coaching staff to inject elite-level professional insights into the women’s game as they ramp up for a busy international calendar.

Structuring the Squad for a Global Campaign

The current camp, which runs from April 12 to April 24, features a diverse assembly of 34 players, including 10 uncapped individuals who are being integrated into the national setup for the first time. The coaching staff is utilizing this period to evaluate talent and establish the tactical foundations required for the upcoming season. According to training schedules, the presence of veteran players and specialist coaches like Vermeulen is intended to accelerate the learning curve for these emerging prospects while refining the skills of established internationals.

Injury Concerns for Key Personnel

A notable absence from the on,field sessions is influential Number 8 Aseza Hele, who has recently undergone surgery following a grueling domestic campaign. The Boland forward reportedly played four matches with a fractured finger, including the Women’s Super League final where the Bulls Daisies claimed the championship title at Loftus Versfeld. According to medical assessments, there is a possibility that Hele will be unavailable for the opening fixtures of the international season, presenting a selection challenge for the coaching team in the back row.