Chikozho breaks into Gems

Veronica Gwaze

WHEN she received her call-up to the national team, Leslie Chikozho thought someone was trying to prank her.

The thought of a national team call-up had never crossed her mind.

The timing was also curious.

With just two months left before the 2023 Netball World Cup, the 30-year-old could never have imagined she could be presented with an opportunity to make her debut at such a grand stage.

The mid-court player only joined professional netball in 2021.

In fact, ‘Khedha’, as she is called by her peers, also doubted her own abilities.

New faces in the squad

She is one of the new faces in the squad that is currently in camp to prepare for the World Cup scheduled for Cape Town,  South Africa, between July 28 and August 6.

“When the call-up came, we were on our way from our league games in Mutare . . . I could not believe it,’’ Chikozho said.

“I thought the coach was joking.

“He then showed me the letter. I sat down, processing everything, because it felt like a dream that I would be rubbing shoulders with the country’s finest.”

Her netball journey started at Debwe Primary School in Chirumhanzu, before moving to Siyahokwe High School.

Years later, she found herself playing for Chinhoyi University of Technology, Zimparks, TelOne and ZDF Queens.

In the national team, she now joins fellow debutants, who include Platinum Queens attacker Silibaziso Shumba and Green Fuel shooter Mitchelle Muzanenhamo.

Attacker Lorraine Manjoro, who plays for prisons outfit Khami, also bounced back after a two-year sabbatical from the national team.

If Chikozho pleases head coach Ropafadzo Mutsauki, she might feature at the World Cup.

“The thought of making my debut at such a tournament is scary because all eyes will be on me.

“Looking at the team that made it to the World Cup in 2019 in Liverpool, it means we have to work hard to maintain the standards they set.

“It is a huge task. However, everyone expects us (debutants) to fit in, so we have to give it our all,” she said.

She believes she is ready to deliver and play her part in trying to help the Gems to a top-eight finish.

“We are working hard in camp; morale is high, improving with each game. And with the experience from senior players, we are ready.

“I want to feel the World Cup ecstasy . . . However, I understand that we play as a team, so this is not about personal glory, but, as an individual, you need to give it your all and shine bright.”

Chikozho’s father, Peter, is equally excited.

“It is every parent’s dream to watch their child play at the World Cup and I hope that Lessie makes it,” he said.

“I am also ready to support her dream of giving back to the community in Chirumhanzu; it shows a deep sense of belonging and patriotism.”

The Gems coach is impressed with the team’s progress in camp.

Team shaping up well

Despite the introduction of new players at the 11th hour, he notes that it has been quick and easy for the new players to blend in.

“The team is shaping up well. So far, we do not have any major injuries, which means all players are available for selection.

“Some of our players are winding up school, while three others, including captain Felisitus Kwangwa, are still in the diaspora.

“They will join us soon, so morale is high and everything is in the right direction.

“We are also conditioning ourselves mentally. Facing Australia in the opening match means we need to be emotionally strong,” said Mutsauki.