Gems set sights on gold at Celtic Cup

Gems goal attacker Nicole Muzanenhamo

Media Mpofu, Zimpapers Sports Hub

ZIMBABWE’S national netball team, the Gems, have named their squad for the 2025 Celtic Cup as preparations intensify for the tournament set for late November in Scotland.

Last year, the Gems claimed bronze at the inaugural edition in Glasgow after beating Northern Ireland 55–49 in the third-place play-off. This time, they’re chasing more than just a repeat.

“This year, the team is determined not only to replicate that success but to improve and aim even higher,” said the Zimbabwe Netball Association (Zina) in a statement.

The competition will pit the Gems against strong sides like Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Namibia and Uganda, offering crucial exposure and a chance to fine-tune tactics against quality opposition.

The Welsh Feathers will return as defending champions, having defeated the Scottish Thistles 59–47 in last year’s final. The round-robin format means every game will count in the race for the title.

Fresh from a bronze medal at the 2024 Africa Netball Cup in Namibia, the Gems are eager to build on that momentum. Their confidence was further boosted by a successful friendly tour of Kenya, which ended with a commanding 58–37 win in their final match.

Zina extended its gratitude to Nedbank Zimbabwe, the team’s title sponsor, whose continued support has been key to the Gems’ progress and ambitions.

“As the team settles into camp and prepares for the journey to Scotland, we call on all Zimbabweans to rally behind the Gems,” Zina said.
Squad

Takadanaishe Zimusi (Chapungu), Prisca Mpofu (Chapungu), Blessing Marombo (Chapungu), Androllar Munkuli (Chapungu), Lisa Tanganyika (Chapungu), Sharon Bwanali (ZDF), Thandekile Mahlangu (ZDF), Nikkie Mandeya (ZDF), Elizabeth Mushore (Harare City), Takunda Namwewe (Harare City),

Kelly Muyambo (Makate), Olishias Nyasha Padoka (Makate), Wadzanai Monalisa Zimunya (Rhinos), Felisitus Kwangwa (Correctional), Faith Mutero (Correctional), Thandazile Ndlovu (Correctional), Anifa Luya (Flo Angels), Ruvimbo Pawandiwa (Flo Angels), Beulah Daure (Flo Angels), Perisinevi Tabviroona

(Santa), Nicole Muzanenamo (Flo Angels), Lynette Dhliwayo (Green Fuel), Linda Kamba (Green Fuel), Tanaka Makusha (Glow), Ursula Ndlovu (Glow), Nobunkosi Ndlovu (Glow), Claris Kwaramba (Glow), Lesibane Karoo (Glow), Prudence Sibanda (Glow), Nalani Makunde (Australia).