ZIMBABWE Netball Association (ZINA) president Letitia Chipandu has pledged a good showing by the senior netball team ahead of the team's departure for Cape Town tomorrow where they will take part in the World Cup tournament.
The global meet, which will feature 16 countries, will be played between July 28 and August 6 and for the first time in history, the tournament takes place on African soil.
Zimbabwe was drawn in Pool A together with Fiji, Tonga and the defending champions and number one ranked Australia.
Going into this tournament, the Gems seek to improve on their eighth place finish in their maiden 2019 World Cup appearance in Liverpool, United Kingdom.
The team has been in camp for more than a month, engaging in a series of friendlies with men's teams to increase fitness levels and speed.
Speaking at the team's send-off ceremony yesterday, Chipandu said the team is committed and they will exhibit fighting spirit.
“Our journey to the Netball World Cup is a testament to the continuous growth of netball, not just in Zimbabwe but on the global stage as well. The sport has evolved significantly, becoming more competitive and thrilling. Our Gems are the embodiment of this evolution - they are stronger, more skilled, and ready to shine brighter than ever,” said Chipandu.
“As we depart for Cape Town for our pre-tournament matches, we carry with us the hope and pride of our nation. The Gems are more than a team; they are the face of Zimbabwe on the global netball stage, ready to make our nation proud.”
- EcoCash, OK Zimbabwe seal partnership
- Feli Nandi for Zimind, Nedbank listed companies awards ceremony
- Delta shines as headwinds torment ZSE firms
- Nedbank Zim heads for VFEX
Keep Reading
The Gems will engage in a series of friendlies against England, Babadoes and Wales as they seek to fine tune the team before the tournament sets off.
“Our participation in the Netball World Cup 2023 is not just about the competition, it's about representing Zimbabwe, showcasing our talent, and highlighting the potential of netball in our country. I urge everyone to continue supporting our Gems. Your belief and cheers are the wind beneath their wings,” she said.
Nedbank Zimbabwe head of treasury and acting head of marketing, PR and client services Latifa Kassim reaffirmed their support for the Gems.
The bank paid for the kit, accommodation, air travel, gym subscriptions, travel insurance, participation fees and US$500 for meals for each player amounting to a total slightly above US$72 000.
Players were given US$500 allowance each yesterday, while OK Zimbabwe also chipped in and offered grocery hampers to the team.
Zimbabwe will play their opening match on July 28 against Australia.
