YOUNG GEMS BUZZING

WITH just a few days to go before the Netball World Youth Cup qualifiers get underway in South Africa, Young Gems captain, Thandazile Ndhlovu, says the team is ready for the challenge.

The team is expected to leave for South Africa this week.

The event is due to take place from March 17 to 23 in Pretoria, South Africa.

The Under-21 side got into camp two weeks ago at Girls High School.

“So, the preparations have been going well so far. I think we are ready to go and compete in South Africa.

“I feel excited to be the captain representing my country,” said Ndhlovu.

The Young Gems’ last competition was in 2022 when they won gold at the Confederation of Southern African Netball Association (COSANA) Games in Malawi.

Ndhlovu, was crowned Goal Shooter of the tournament.

As they brace for the upcoming qualifiers, the 20-year-old believes experience from previous competitions will come in handy.

“I was the best goal shooter in Malawi, so I think that experience is important, and we will go and try to work hard so that we win.

“Some of the players, I think we know them. We have also played with them before. So, I think we will go and put pressure on our opponents.”

Nedbank, who sponsored the senior national team last year for the World Cup and Africa Netball Cup participation in South Africa and Botswana, extended their support to the Under-21s when they unveiled a US$25 000 sponsorship.

Gems captain Felisitus Kwangwa is the team manager.

Team: Thandazile Ndhlovu (captain), Nikki Mandeya, Lubelihle Khumalo, Ruvimbo Pawandiwa, Faith Mutero (vice-captain), Sharon Mugwara, Natasha Rwambiwa, Ester Kasiku, Thandiwe Mashore, Charlotte Ndlovu, Beyonce Ndaradzi, Nyaradzai Muzondiwa, Yemurai Seven, Amackella Phiri, Androllar Munkuli.

Technical Team: Tapiwa Chirenda (head coach), Simbarashe Mlambo (assistant coach), Sibonginkosi Dube (second assistant coach), Felisitus Kwangwa (team manager), Rangarirai Musarurwa (strength and conditioning).