Gems ready to take on South Africa this afternoon

Ellina Mhlanga Senior Sports Reporter

ZIMBABWE’S Gems get their campaign at the Africa Netball Cup this afternoon with a tough encounter against South Africa in Windhoek, Namibia.

The match is scheduled for 1pm.

South Africa are the defending champions having won the previous edition held in 2019.

Zimbabwe’s coach, Lloyd Makunde is, however, not reading much into history and says there is positive energy in his camp.

“As much as we respect our opponents, we are going to take the game to them and not play defensive netball.

“There is high morale and we have been telling the players that it’s the same netball we play at home especially the new young girls.

“Most of them are gaining more confidence and we are pushing them all to be better. It’s important that they play well because they are the future of Zimbabwe Netball,” said Makunde.

Vice-captain Claris Kwaramba and centre Nobukhosi Ndhovu are back in the starting seven after missing the match against Zambia at the Pent Series last Friday due to injuries.

Starting Seven: Tatenda Dziva (GK), Felisitus Kwangwa (GD), Claris Kwaramba (WD), Nobukhosi Ndlovu (C), Paidamoyo Tinoza (WA), Tafadzwa Matura (GA), Sharon Bwanali (GS).

Subs: Lynnet Tanhira (GS), Ursula Ndlovu (WA/GA), Queen Sigauke (GK/GD), Priscilla Ndlovu (GK/GD), Progress Moyo (C/WA).