Malawi National Netball Team has been given food for thought after sweating to overcome 19th ranked Fiji 60-49 in a practice match Monday ahead of Tuesday’s litmus test against number two ranked team, New Zealand.
However, it was an encouraging performance as the Queens narrowly beat the same opponents 54-47 during the recent PacificAus Netball Series in Australia in April.
The teams are using the test matches as part of final preparations before the 2023 Netball World Cup finals throws off in Cape Town, South Africa.
During Monday’s match, Queens interim coach Samuel Kanyenda named a strong squad, with goalkeeper Lauren Ngwira, goal defender Towera Vinkhumbo and wing defender Grace Mwafulirwa starting in defence while centre Takondwa Lwazi and wing-attacker Thandie Galeta were feeding attackers.
Shooter Joyce Mvula and goal-attacker Jane Chimaliro started in attack.
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The Queens started strongly as they led the first quarter 21-9 before extending the lead to 36- 25 at half time.
At the end of the first quarter, Queens were leading 50-36.
Kanyenda said he would have a clear picture of his charges after today’s match against New Zealand.
“It was a good test because it has given us insight into what can work or not. We will get the final picture when we play New Zealand,” he said.
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Meanwhile, Kanyenda has said the senior side is acclimatising well before their Group B opening match against Scotland on Friday at Cape Town International Convention Centre in Cape Town.
Australia-based shooter Mwawi Kumwenda was the first to arrive in South Africa before she was joined by her compatriots last Friday.
Kanyenda said having foreign country-based players in the squad is motivating.
“They play against some of the big names and, probably, they encourage their colleagues not to get intimidated,” he said.
Following the late withdrawal of Queens skipper Caroline Mtukule due to injury, Kukoma Diamonds up-and-coming defender Shabelo Bengo was included in the squad.
The Queens have three players on reserve and they can call Salome Nkhoma, Florence Gamuka and Lusako Mhango in case of injuries or withdrawals.
In a related development, Netball Association of Malawi General Secretary Isaac Chimwala has lauded the support the team is getting.
Sixth-ranked Queens are in Group B and will begin their campaign against 10th ranked Scotland on Friday before taking on third-ranked England on Saturday.
Malawi will then face 14th-ranked Barbados on Sunday.
