Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze
Zimpapers Sports Hub
GEMS coach Ropafadzo Mutsauki could have received just the boost he needed after Goal Shooter Thandazile Ndhlovu joined the team ahead of the crucial 2027 Netball World Cup Qualifiers.
The continental contest, which will also serve as African Championships is pencilled to take place in Nairobi, Kenya between September 19 and 26.
The Gems are in Group One where they need to shrug off competition from South Africa, Kenya, Botswana and Nigeria at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani (Indoor Arena) in Nairobi.
Group Two will be made up of Uganda, Malawi, Namibia, Zambia and Tanzania.
South Africa and Uganda have already qualified for the World Cup scheduled for Sydney, Australia, next year while the other teams have to compete for the two remaining slots available for Africa.
The Qualifiers-cum-Africa Netball Cup will also feature the men’s African Championships.
Ndhlovu, a shooter under Correctional Queens, was initially ruled out of the Qualifiers to help her attend her Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services training where she recently joined the service as a Prison Officer.
However, ZPCS released her to join camp earlier this week, in time, as the Gems intensify their preparations.
“We are happy that almost all players are now in camp, with those who are not yet here likely not going to be part of the team considering that we are now out of time,” coach Mutsauki said.
“Ndhlovu, who was unavailable in the opening weeks due to ZPCS service, is now here, training with the rest of the squad.”
Her availability is a significant boost to the technical team and the shooter is showing sharpness, confidence, and a clear readiness to return to international action.
Ndhlovu comes into the qualifiers as favorite for the “Player of the Tournament” title after walking away with the continental top prize in Malawi.
Ndhlovu brings a wealth of experience, notes on some of the opponents’ players and the much-needed height in the shooting ring as a trusted GS in the absence of veteran Sharon Bwanali.
“Ndhlovu is young but what she offers is unmatched; she has the shots and her combination with attackers Nicole Muzanenhamo, Ursula Ndlovu and Anifa Luya is something we should bank on,” said the coach.
“Morale is high in camp, competition for places is intense, and the group is fully focused as preparations continue for the Qualifiers.”
Mutsauki is encouraged by the integration of new players in the Gems’ rebuilding exercise.
“I am charmed with the progression I have seen among the new players.
“This is what any coach would want.
“We have been to the Qualifiers before and we are aware of what to expect on that stage so part of our preparations need us to ensure that the players are psychologically fit.
“It will not be easy, especially for the debutants, but at this stage we believe that mostly it is mind games hence the need for us to be in the best shape.”
