Rugby Football Union of Malawi (Rfum) has come up with a final squad ahead of the test match against Lesotho at St. Andrew’s International High School in Blantyre this Saturday.
According to national coach Precious Matache, at least 30 players were called into camp, but only 22 have been given responsibility to represent the country in the showdown.
During a press briefing held yesterday at College of Medicine (CoM) Sports Complex in Blantyre, Matache said they are ready to shake-off dust the national team gathered for the past 23 years due to inactivity.
“We had three camp trainings ahead of this game and we are confident of plucking a win against Lesotho this Saturday. I have strong belief in the final squad and I have confidence that we will make the country proud,” he said.
Rfum chairperson Gus Banda, who was accompanied by his deputy Grey Tewete and director of development Carl Meyer at the briefing, said the game against Lesotho is their first assignment on their mission to help the country gain international ranking and graduate from category E.
“There has been a lot of work to enhance the fitness level of the squad considering the resources we have. I, therefore, urge the players to overcome the challenges and not to let the country down,” he said.
On his part, one of the players Brighton Mwando said despite wearing the underdogs tag, they do not have pressure to play against an experienced national team for the first time.
English referee Ian Dance, who will handle the imminent game, has already arrived in the country and has urged Malawi and Lesotho not to be involved in cynical play.
The final squad, whose preparations have been supported by companies such as Superior Halaal, MultiChoice Malawi, Charles Stewart and Old Mutual, comprises Martin Chikalaka, Brennan Bartlet, Eric Mumba, Andrew Mbera, Sam Kabambe, Majawa Dube, Ezekiel Gunde, Chifundo Mawele, Mwando, Alster Momba, Prince Chanje, Dave Ndalama, Khumalo Kapetuka, Bright Matumula, Cedrick Chewale, Jack Mphande, Yusuf Nyambi, Grey Tewete, Mahuta Kariko, Justin Mkandawire, Ryan Hogan and Cathrew Chimimba.
