Rugby changed my life, says Springbok star Malinga

AYANDA Malinga took up rugby to go against the conventional sporting flow for women, and the sport has rewarded her with a place in the Springboks Women's team, currently in England for the World Cup.

- MIKE GREENAWAY

The Boks begin their campaign on Sunday against Brazil, with Malinga likely to be on the wing for the vital round-one opener.

"This is my first World Cup, and it is very emotional for me because I could not go to the 2022 tournament. I got injured at the last minute," the 27-year-old speedster said.

"But God's timing is always the best because this time I feel I am better prepared physically. I’m well and feeling good. I am excited to go there and have this experience.

"There are going to be a lot of people with a lot of experience at the tournament. I will learn through them. Seeing players that I look up to there is going to be something else. I want to enjoy every moment.”