Yonela Ngxingolo was earmarked for a long career in rugby from her school days in East London, where she excelled for Border in the FNB U16 and U18 Girls Weeks. It was no surprise that she was called into the Springbok Women squad for their European tour at the age of 19, and she made her Test debut against Wales in Cardiff that year. Her ability to also pack down on both sides of the front row, along with excellent running skills, means she is an ideal super sub. She was named Player of the Match in the 2026 Pick n Pay Women's Super League final.