Kukoma, Tigresses wrestle for Ngwira

Local netball giants Kukoma Diamonds and Tigresses are embroiled in a feud over gangly goal shooter Loreen Ngwira.

Diamonds have expressed frustration over their rivals’ reluctance to open transfer negotiations for the on-and-off Queens player.

The Capital Oil Refining Industry (Cori)-sponsored outfit intends to beef up the squad by roping in Ngwira, but Tigresses insist that the player cannot be sold because she is tied to the club on a four-year deal.

Diamonds’ general secretary, Chimwemwe Bakali, said they are disappointed with Tigresses’ conduct.

“It is really frustrating because our counterparts insist that we cannot discuss the issue outside the transfer window.

“In my little understanding of the game, I believe discussions can take place at any time, but the transfer can be completed during the designated transfer window. Besides that, having a long-term deal with the team does not mean that the player cannot be released,” he said.

In view of the development, Bakali said Diamonds will discuss with their sponsor on the way forward.

“As you know, our sponsor, Cori, has already assured us that they will provide funds for any transfer,” he said.

On his part, sponsorship coordinator, Violet Kapolo, said it was their wish to have a star-studded team.

“We don’t want to be involved in the operations of the team. On issues to do with transfers, we are closely monitoring because we want our team to remain a big side. We feel players should be allowed to join a team of their choice,” she said.

Tigresses’ team manager, Helene Mpinganjira-Tasosa, cautioned Diamonds to follow governing local netball constitution.

“We want to keep our best players and we are not in a mood to sell Loreen. Diamonds should also be aware that transfer discussions cannot take place outside the transfer window,” she said.

Ngwira failed to join Alliance Capital Stars last season on similar grounds.