The South African Women’s Hockey team has been named for the 9th African Cup of Nations, taking place from 11–18 October 2025 in Ismailia, Egypt. The winner of the tournament will secure Africa’s sole qualification spot for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
South Africa will arrive in Egypt as defending champions, having lifted the trophy in the last seven consecutive editions of the tournament. The team will be aiming to extend their dominance on the continental stage and claim an historic eighth straight title.
There are three players earning their debut caps for South Africa after impressing at the recently concluded IPT in Cape Town. Ane’ Janse van Vuuren, Caylin Maree and Jeanri Thomas will all start their international journey. While nine members of the squad that did battle at the Olympic Games in Paris are retained.
Head coach Inky Zondi has selected a balanced and experienced squad, blending seasoned internationals with exciting emerging talent:
South Africa Women’s Hockey Team – African Cup of Nations 2025
|
Name |
Caps | Name | Caps | Name | Caps |
| Ane’ Janse van Vuuren | 0 | Jeanri Thomas | 0 | Ongeziwe Mali | 43 |
| Cailynn Den Bakker | 20 | Kayla De Waal | 33 | Onthatile Zulu | 69 |
| Caylin Maree | 0 | Lerato Mahole | 15 | Quanita Bobbs | 185 |
| Edith Molikoe | 47 | Marlise Van Tonder | 41 | Stephanie Botha | 43 |
| Hannah Pearce | 54 | Morgan De Jager | 3 | Taheera Augousti | 34 |
| Jean-Leigh Du Toit | 39 | Ntsopa Mokoena | 39 | Tegan Fourie | 23 |
Speaking on the announcement, Zondi expressed confidence in the team’s preparations and hunger for success:
“This group has the talent, the experience, and the drive to compete at the highest level. We know the stakes, the African title and a place at the World Cup, and we’re ready to embrace the challenge.”
The South African Women’s Hockey team will open their campaign on 11 October, with the final scheduled for 18 October. Further details will be shared once released by African Hockey.
