Malawi National Netball Team Head Consultant-cum-Coach Debbie Fuller has named a 16-member squad for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The Games are scheduled for July 23 to August 2 in Scotland. The squad comprises four reserve players and 12 seasoned ones.
Australia-based shooter Mwawi Kumwenda is among the experienced players in the squad along with Takondwa Lwazi, Thandie Galeta and Martha Dambo.
Tigresses’ shooter Tendai Masamba, who had a decent outing in Asia, where she won titles with Malaysian and Singapore side, is also in the squad.
The New Zealander has also named several youngsters in the squad and they include Ethel Ng’ambi, Florence Jeke, Stella Matelezi, Melia Soko, Mphatso Banda, Beatrice Kumwenda, Aisha Gama, Ruth Chimzimu and Sophilet Banda.
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Netball Association of Malawi (Nam) General Secretary Yamikani Khungwa- Kauma said the technical panel had earmarked 16 players for the Commonwealth Games but only 12 would travel.
“We now have our final squad for the Commonwealth Games but four of the 16 are reserve players. It means they will not travel with the team but they can be recalled to fill the void in case of eventualities,” Khungwa-Kauma said.
She said the senior Queens squad was named after an intensive two week residential training camp aimed at preparing the team for one of the most prestigious multisport events on the international calendar.
“The selected players have demonstrated outstanding commitment, discipline and performance throughout the preparations and will carry Malawi’s hopes as the Queens seek to make a significant impact on the global stage,” she said.
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Khungwa-Kauma said she was confident in the team’s readiness and ability to compete at the highest level.
“The selection process has been highly competitive, reflecting the growing depth and quality of netball talent in Malawi. The coaching panel has carefully assessed players throughout the training camp and selected a squad that combines experience, versatility and youthful energy.
“We are confident that these athletes will represent Malawi with pride and determination at the Commonwealth Games,” she said.
The Queens have been playing matches against the Malawi Men’s National Netball Team—the Kings.
On Monday, the Queens edged the Kings 43-42 before losing 42- 48 on Tuesday.
Yesterday, the Queens returned to the throne when they beat the Kings 49-44.
The following is the full squad:
Shooters
Mwawi Kumwenda, Ethel Ng’ambi, Florence Jeke, Nancy Mwaulambo, Stella Matelezi and Tendai Masamba. Mid Court Takondwa Lwazi, Melia Soko, Thandi Galeta, Mphatso Banda and Beatrice Kumwenda.
Defence
Martha Dambo, Aisha Gama, Shabel Bengo, Ruth Chimzimu and Sophilet Banda.
Technical Team
Head Consultant- Coach—Deborah Fuller Assistant Coach—Peace Chawinga Strength and Conditioning Lead—Beatrice Mpinganjira Physiotherapist—Thomas Banda Team Manager—Zikubwerera Washon
