Online Reporter
Daniel Chigunwe
Herald Correspondent
THE National Darts Association of Zimbabwe (NDAZ) has unveiled the national team that will represent the country at the 32nd AUSC Region 5 Senior Darts Championship set for Gaborone, Botswana, from August 24 to 28.
The squad was selected following competitive national trials held at the Pastoral Centre, St Peter’s Catholic Hall in Chinhoyi on May 23 and 24, where some of the country’s top players battled for places in Team Zimbabwe.
In the Senior Men’s category, Modokai Dheka emerged as the standout performer after topping the rankings with 51 points out of a possible 64.
Kudzanai Nyemba also impressed by recording 11 maximum 180s during the trials, while Tawanda Hodzi produced a brilliant 13-darter, underlining the high standard of competition witnessed in Chinhoyi.
Mashonaland West players dominated several categories, reflecting the province’s growing influence in the local darts scene.
The Senior Men’s team comprises Modokai Dheka, Kudzanai Nyemba, Libert Dopota, Tawanda Hodzi, Debrahim Shumba, Agripa Masekera and Terrence Machinga.
The Senior Ladies squad includes Hlonipani Ndlovu, Eunice Moyo, Sibabone Mamwiri, Muchaneta Kofi and Kudzanai Bhero.
Zimbabwe will also field players in the Junior Men, Junior Ladies, Veterans Men and Veterans Ladies categories.
NDAZ president Rodwell Chidanhamabwe said the association was satisfied with the quality displayed during the trials and expressed confidence in the team’s chances at the regional competition.
“The level of competition during the trials was very encouraging and it shows that darts in Zimbabwe continues to grow in both quality and participation,” said Chidanhamabwe.
“We are confident that the players selected will represent the country with distinction in Botswana. The depth we witnessed during the trials gives us belief that Zimbabwe can compete strongly against the best teams in the region.”
Chidanhamabwe appealed for corporate support ahead of the regional championship, saying partnerships would play a critical role in ensuring the team is adequately prepared for the tournament.
“We are calling upon sponsors and partners to come on board and support Team Zimbabwe. This is an opportunity for companies to associate with a sport that is growing rapidly among the youth and women while also supporting national representation on the regional stage,” he said.
The regional tournament is expected to attract over 10 countries from across Southern Africa under the AUSC Region 5 banner.
