Bok Women aim to inspire a new generation

FEEL it, it is here!

- ZAAHIER ADAMS

The iconic slogan of the 2010 Fifa World Cup. But now it is the time of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, set to kick off at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light on Friday when hosts England face the USA.

The oval-ball game has traditionally been the domain of big, brutish men. But for the next month, women will take centre stage.

There will be physical contests up front, but also skill and speed on show that will capture audiences’ attention. And it is this new fan base that excites me.

According to a report released by World Rugby, the Women’s Rugby World Cup England 2025 is forecast to attract up to 400 000 attendees and 50 million global viewing hours.

The report includes staggering numbers: 49% of fans have joined in the last two years, engagement is up 65% over the past four years, with South African supporters in particular leading the way with a 72% rise, followed by the USA's 69%.