Sundaymail Editor
Online Reporter
LADY Cheetahs’ captain Margaret Magwaro has praised the grit and determination that has been shown by her charges during the last couple of months, and now expects a good showing at this weekend’s make-or-break rugby World Cup Pre-Qualifiers Tournament in Lesotho.
Speaking at the team’s send-off dinner held in the capital Wednesday night, Magwaro said although the team wanted to be in camp for a longer period, disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic made it impossible.
“We have had a lot of challenges, especially as to pertains to camp and training,” said Magwaro.
“We would have loved to be in camp for a longer period, but couldn’t do that due to the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns.
“However, we did regroup in December and have been together since, training twice a week.
“Our strength and conditioning was not up to scratch at first, and I have to praise the whole team for the effort they all put in to get their fitness levels to where they need to be.
“Now, we are ready to go war and have no option but to win it all.”
Coach Dereck Chiwara named his 12-member travelling squad, which blends both youth and experience.
Magwaro will share leadership duties with co-captain Lindiwe Munerenyu.
The duo will be aided by the experience of Precious Marange, who missed out on last year’s fixtures due to her obligations with the Zimbabwe women’s cricket team.
The three will form the core of the team.
Among those that also made the cut are Peace Sithole, Precious Chirinda, Samantha Chirongoma, Gladys Mukome, Caroline Malenga, Delight Mukomondo, Robyn Mhembere, Rumbidzai Chigumbu and Chiwoniso Mabika.
The team, which have been placed in Pool A alongside Namibia, Botswana and hosts Lesotho, left Harare on Thursday.
They play Lesotho on Saturday at 10am.
They will wrap up their group games with clashes against Namibia and Botswana during the course of the day.
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter