Ellis is quite excited abour her Banyana project

A DAY after being named as the interim head coach of Banyana Banyana, Cape Town’s Desiree Ellis was in the thick of things with regard to her new position as she named a 23- strong squad to take on Egypt in a friendly next Saturday.

Ellis is preparing her team for the women’s Africa Cup of Nations scheduled for Cameroon from November 19 to December 3.

The 53- year- old temporarily replaces Dutchwoman Vera Pauw as Banyana head coach, while Safa decides on who the permanent choice for the position will be.

But it does allow Ellis, a former national captain and who spent two- and- half years as Pauw’s assistant, an opportunity to demonstrate her coaching nous and ability to her employers.

The Egypt friendly provides Ellis with the perfect test as she fine- tunes the squad for the start of the Afcon women’s championships next month, where Banyana have been drawn in Group A with hosts Cameroon, Egypt and Zimbabwe. Group B includes Nigeria, Mali, Ghana and Kenya.

“I am excited about this project,” said Ellis.

“I am looking forward to this coming week and thereafter.

“This is a good and well-balanced squad I’ve selected, and I am confident we will pick up from where we left off during the Olympics.” Banyana Banyana squad Goalkeepers: Andile Dlamini, Yolula Tsawe, Mapaseka Mpuru. Defenders: Letago Madiba, Nothando Vilakazi, Janine van Wyk, Noko Matlou, Astria Boks, Bambanani Mbane, Lebogang Mabatle. Midfielders: Mamello Makhabane, Amogelang Motau, Silindile Ngubane, Refiloe Jane, Nompumelelo Nyandeni, Bongiwe Thusi, Linda Motlhalo, Lebogang Rakhuduwe, Thembi Kgatlana. Forwards: Rhoda Mulaudzi, Shiwe Nogwanya, Andisiwe Mcgoyi, Bontle Mashilo.