Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) has secured three test matches against South Africa’s Spar Proteas, the first outing for the national team since the Covid-19 induced sports suspension.
NAM general secretary Carol Bapu yesterday said the matches are scheduled for between November 23 and 30 in South Africa.
She described the games as crucial, especially because the netball team has been dormant for six months.
Bapu said: “The matches may help us to improve our rankings because South Africa is a strong side. Apart from that, the test matches will help the girls keep in shape.”
She hinted that the team may regroup for training next week to prepare for the games.
“The good thing is that the players were given a programme to keep themselves fit while working out at home due to Covid-19 restrictions.
“So, we are optimistic that they are fit,” she said.
Bapu added that they already have a list of players that will be called into camp and they are the ones who were on individual training programme.
In a separate interview, Queens captain Carol Mtukule-Ngwira said it came as a relief that they would finally resume international netball.
“We have been inactive for almost a year. We are excited that we have these matches coming up,” she said.
Ngwira said though most players were following the home training programme religiously, there was still need for early camping.
“We need time to attain match fitness. It is, therefore, important that we start preparations as early as possible to be ready for the games.
“These are not ordinary friendly matches. They determine the rankings. So, we must treat them with sheer serious,” she explained.
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