Malawi National Netball Team’s preparations for the Africa Netball Cup have gathered momentum after the technical panel trimmed 11 players to remain with 15 in camp.
The Queens went into camp in Lilongwe last week in readiness for the continental championship, which is slated for Namibia from December 9 to 14. Kukoma Diamonds’ wing attacker Bridget Kumwenda and Blue Eagles enterprising centre Molly Chisambiro are among key players who have been dropped from the squad.
Other players who have been released are Mphatso Kanyimbo (Ekwendeni Resource), Chifunilo Moses (Young Eagles), Beatrice Kumwenda (Mafco), Mestina Mtete (First Choice Tigresses), Ella Dafter (Giants), Tinkhani Ndlovu (Kukoma Diamonds), Patricia Moyo (Young Eagles), Lerrie Banda (Lioness) and Julie Kamwera (Mafco).
Co-coach Mary Waya confirmed that 11 players had been dropped from the squad but was quick to point out that they would remain part of the Queens’ structure.
“Our preparations are on track. All the players have been outstanding but we had to trim [the number].
“However, the players that have been dropped will remain in our system because the idea is to build three teams, namely the senior side, then team B and C,” Waya said.
Waya, together with co-coach Peace Chawinga-Kaluwa, named a 27-member squad at the end of the three-day Salima Sugar National Netball Cup finals in Blantyre last week.
Netball Association of Malawi (Nam) General Secretary Yamikani Khungwa-Kauma said they were counting on the team to perform well at the championship.
“Preparations are on track.
“We are trying our best to support the team ahead of the championship,” she said.
