Malawi Under-21 National Netball Team will be without four key players at the Netball World Youth Cup 2025 in Gibraltar as they will be over-aged, Times Sport has learnt.
The four include captain and goalkeeper Shabelo Bengo, wing attacker Rellie Banda, centre Marietta Harrison and wing defender Thokozani Makunganya.
The quartet played a crucial role when the junior Queens finished as runners-up during the qualifiers in South Africa.
Junior Queens Coach Christina Mkwanda confirmed that they would be without the four players but was quick to say replacements are available.
“We knew that they would not be part of the squad but we had to secure our slot and sort other things later. In this case, we have other players that were left out and will be picked this time around.
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“We will also consider other players that are within the age range. We have time to identify and groom replacements,” Mkwanda said.
Netball Association of Malawi General Secretary Isaac Chimwala promised that the association would support the coach’s plan.
“We have a deliberate plan to put on special training players with height to match the team against competition,” Chimwala said.
Reports suggest that South Africa’s Baby Proteas, who emerged continental champions, will also miss three players at the world showpiece.
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Meanwhile, former netballer Neffie Kam’mata has backed the coaches for using players who will turn 22 next year.
“We cannot say that they [coaches] were entirely wrong because qualification was what we needed most. Under, normal circumstances, you give priority to players who can play for the team for about two to three years to avoid having coordination problems,” Kam’mata said.
She also felt that the country has outstanding players who can replace the four.
“There are a lot of youngsters out there who can fit in. It is my hope that the team would be given enough resources and preparation time,” Kam’mata said.
The team’s top shooter, Stella Matelezi, is still eligible for the competition.
