NAM to contribute towards Queens England trip

England’s invitation to the Malawi Queens to participate in the Quad Series Tournament in Wales, UK, in May this year has conditions attached to it.

Unlike the failed Dubai Quad Series where air tickets, food, accommodation and internal travel costs were to be provided by the organisers, this time around the Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) will have to buy air tickets for 17 players and officials.

NAM president Rosy Chinunda on Wednesday confirmed the news.

“They [England] have made it clear that we must finance our own transport to and from. I have asked the treasurer to draw up the budget so that we can start fundraising.

“Not only are we supposed to buy air tickets but we are also expected to provide allowances to the players and officials,” she said.

Queens were supposed to travel to Dubai in April for a four-nation tournament against continental rivals South Africa, England and Jamaica, but the tournament was cancelled last week.

Chinunda said it is important that they travel to Wales to participate in the tournament and NAM will do everything to raise the money.

“We have the Commonwealth Games in Scotland in July and for our girls to be in shape, we need strong preparations. This tournament is an opportunity for us to compete against some of the world’s best netball teams.

“We appeal for corporate support for us to be there. As for training, we are assured of Airtel’s support,” said Chinunda.

In Wales, the Queens will also face the same teams that they were supposed to meet in Dubai.

They will also face almost the same teams in the Commonwealth Games, depending on the draw.