Online Reporter
Veronica Gwaze-Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE Netball Association have finally given a nod to celebrated coach and former national team captain Pepetua Siyachitema’s capabilities, drafting her into the national team technical set up.
This comes after the association yesterday released a 40-member squad, ahead of a scheduled Test series against Kenya. The team, a combination of the senior national team (Gems) and the Zambezi Eagles are camped at Girls High School in preparation for the games.
Long serving mentor Ropafadzo Mutsauki retained his post as head coach while Siyachitema comes in as his assistant. Agnes Chiroodza and Daphine Gurupira will be serving as team managers for the Gems and Zambezi Eagles respectively. “The camp began this past weekend, marking both teams’ first preparatory phase ahead of critical upcoming competitions,” said ZINA.
“We have created a platform for players to earn a spot in the final teams eventually.
“For now, the teams will be trimmed down to 15 for the Zambezi Eagles and 15 for the Gems as training and screening continue.” These preparations are pivotal in the build-up to Zimbabwe’s participation in their two major international tournaments for 2025.
The Gems will host a Test Series against Kenya between August 26 and 30.
In November, the team is scheduled to make their second appearance at the Celtic Cup in Scotland, before the Africa Netball Championships in Malawi in December.
These tournaments will provide coaches with an opportunity to assess the team’s competitiveness and give the team the much-needed exposure.
The games also play a vital role in ZINA’s strategy for qualifying for the 2027 Netball World Cup.
However, it is Siyachitema’s long-anticipated inclusion in the technical team that has charmed many and renewed hope that ZINA have embraced inclusivity.
Zimbabwe Provisional Squad
Felistus Kwangwa, Thandazile Ndlovu, Faith Mutero (RANL Correctional Queens); Upenyu Kelly Muyambo, Faith Chitunda, Ester Kasiku, Olishias Nyasha Padoka, Mabika Paida, Faith Chibuda (PNL Makate Queens); Nicole Muzanenhamo, Sonia Chari, Linda Komba, Lynette Dhliwayo, Lubelihle Khumalo (RANL GreenFuel); Elizabeth Mushore, Tryphine Chimanga, Takunda Namwewe (PNL Harare City); Tanaka Makusha, Ursula Ndlovu, Claris Kwaramba, Lesibane Karaso Munjanji, Prudence Sibanda, Nobunkosi Ndlovu (RANL Glow Petroleum); Sharon Bwanali, Patricia Mauladi, Nikki Mandeya, Thandekile Manhlangu (PNL ZDF Queens); Angel Katyamakwara, Kirsty Chiyaka (Makopa), Wadzanai Zimunya (PNL Black Rhinos); Androller Munkuli, Assah Zimusi, Blessing Marombo, Tafadzwa Matura (PNL Chapungu Queens); Anifa Luya, Beaulah Daure, Ruvimbo Pawandiwa (RANL Flow Angels Queens); Beulah Hlungwani; Muchaneta Luka (PNL Tongogara Queens)
