By Llywellenie Mpasa:
The Netball Association of Malawi (Nam) has said the Malawi Queens’ four-match Test Series against Zimbabwe would be played behind closed doors to give the technical panel freedom to assess players and test combinations ahead of the Commonwealth Games.
The series, which runs until July 10 at Kuhes Sports Complex in Blantyre, will not allow spectators, media coverage, live broadcasts, performance analysis or the release of match results.
Nam President Vitumbiko Gubuduza said the arrangement was aimed at helping the technical team build a competitive squad without external pressure.
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“These matches are important as we prepare the team for the Commonwealth Games.
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Our priority is to produce a competitive team capable of making an impact at the Commonwealth Games,” she said.
Gubuduza said the series would feature experienced international umpires Tharina Operman and Theophilus Moletsane, who would help the players adjust to new rules and expectations ahead of the Commonwealth Games.
Speaking during a press briefing in Blantyre, Malawi Queens High Performance Head Consultant Coach Debbie Fuller said the decision followed international practice among leading netball nations.
“This is common practice among top netball nations. These matches are about testing combinations, trying different game plans and giving players opportunities in a controlled environment before major competitions,” she said.
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However, sports analyst James Jemar Majawa said the decision risked sending a message that fans were not an important part of Malawi netball’s growth.
“The Malawi Queens are a source of national pride. Excluding fans from the matches denies the team the very support that has helped build the popularity of netball in Malawi,” he said.
Zimbabwe Gems assistant coach Tapiwa Chirenga said the series would provide valuable preparation for their World Championship qualifiers.
“These matches are important because they give us quality competition as we prepare for the World Championship qualification campaign,” he said.
Meanwhile, Nico Holdings Limited Corporate Affairs Manager Mbumba Mlia-Ndasauka reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the Queens’ preparations.
“As sponsors, we remain committed to supporting the Malawi Queens and their preparations because we believe in the team’s potential to succeed on the international stage,” she said.
