‘Mwawi is special’

Tactix captain Anna Thompson has described Mwawi Kumwenda as a special weapon ahead of their second ANZ Championship encounter against the Swifts today.

The New Zealand outfit will host the Swifts at Christchurch’s CBS Canterbury Arena after suffering a 70-46 home defeat at the hands of defending champions Waikato Bay in their first match of the season last week.

Despite the defeat, Mwawi made an impressive debut in the competition with 29 baskets from 30 attempts.

Thompson told Netball New Zealand’s official website mynetball that the Malawian shooter, who spent the past three years playing at State league level in Australia and won the Most Valuable Player Award, will give Tactix fans plenty of highlights during the season.

“She’s got a whole bag of tricks and she’s someone who has brought some flair. She’s got great aerial play and she’s strong enough to muscle it up with the best of them. So we’re really excited that she’s a part of our group.

“She’s got the ability to hold and jump so high, but also an ability to move. She’s fit, fast and she’s going to keep building and growing.

“Because she’s so special and unique, we want to keep her flair and things she’s good at.

“So it’s not changing her, it’s us adapting around her and ensuring she’s allowed to play her natural game.”