adminBlessing Malinganiza
The Zimbabwe badminton team is in South Africa for the 2023 Badminton All-Africa Senior Championships that kicks off today in Johannesburg.
The team comprises captain Thabani Mathe, Avishi Raina, Shalom Sibanda, Fabiana Oliviero, Ashel Dziva and Blessing Mahwire.
The seven-day competition will feature hosts South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria.
Mathe said they prepared well for the tournament and are ready to take the competition to their opponents.
“I think we are prepared to fight for a top finish at the competition. We had over a month of preparations and our coaches taught us a lot that we believe we ill do well if we are to apply them.
“Personally as the team captain, I also have targets and goals to lead a team that is going to win and I’m grateful for my partners, especially PG industries for providing me with all necessities during my preparation.
“I have to lead from the front and I believe we are ready to win,” he said.
Coach Paul Kopolo is also confident of bringing back silverware.
“The team had intensive preparations, which I believe can help us win some accolades.
‘‘Our team has experienced players and we think we have all the quality and experience to do well. “We are not going there to add numbers, but to show our qualities and ability to win. I’m sure we are going to do well for our country,” he said.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter