SPAR Proteas eye continental glory at Africa netball cup

The SPAR Proteas are gearing up to take on the best of Africa at the Africa Netball Cup, which kicked off on December 9, in Swakopmund, Namibia.

The South Africans have been drawn in Pool 1 alongside Malawi, Zambia, and Kenya, while Pool 2 features world number six Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Eswatini, and Lesotho.

Coach Jenny van Dyk is predicting a thrilling tournament, with the SPAR Proteas likely to face off against Uganda in the final.

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“We respect Uganda as a team and are aware of their strengths,” she said. “We’re doing our homework to ensure we’re prepared for the challenge.”

Captain Khanyisa Chawane is confident that the SPAR Proteas can overcome Uganda’s unique playing style.
“It is not a team to fear,” she said.

“We have beaten them before and we’re looking forward to giving them something different this time around.”

The Africa Netball Cup provides valuable experience for the SPAR Proteas, who will face teams with a distinct African style of play.

“It is about adapting to their athleticism and relentless pressure,” said vice-captain Karla Pretorious. “We are aware of the challenge and are prepared to execute our game plan.”

The SPAR Proteas will play their first match against Kenya on Monday at 13:00, followed by clashes with Malawi, Zambia, and the playoffs.

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While South African men’s team will also compete in the men’s competition, aiming to defend their title as African champions.

They will face off against Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Lesotho, Kenya, and Eswatini in a round-robin format.

The SPAR Proteas will next travel to Jamaica for a three-Test series against the Sunshine Girls, followed by the Nations Cup in the UK, where they will face England, Uganda, and Malawi.