Chronicle Editor
Nkosilathi Sibanda, [email protected]
NATIONAL senior netball side captain Felistus Kwangwa was one of the best defenders at the just ended World Cup finals held in Cape Town recently.
Statistics released by the World Netball Association show that Kwangwa, who is also the Gems’ captain, managed to intercept 24 balls putting her at the top, in an all-time high record in her career so far.
The Bulawayo bred netballer put up a showing that surpassed players from countries regarded as netball powerhouses.
She was followed closely by Australia’s Courtney Bruce who had 23 intercepts.
At third position was Hulita Veve of Tonga.
Elizabeth Mushore another Zimbabwean was among the top defenders as she intercepted 15 balls.
Goal Attacker Nalani Makunde, also a Gems’ player, was sixth among top players following her impressive 218 goals.
Mushore was to make it again on the most defensive rebound tally, topping the world chart at 20, having played well to beat England’s Geva Mentor and Fiji’s Kelera Nawai-Caucau.
The feat by these players left national team coach Ropafadzo Mutsauki a happy man.
“Our players outshined and made a bold statement at the internation stage in SA. We are proud of their efforts to fly the country’s flag high,” he said, in an interview.
The Gems finished on 13th position.
This year’s Netball World Cup was won by Australia who beat England 61-45.
Online Reporter