By McGeorge Mbare
Zimbabwe ‘s netball national team, the Gems is set to battle against South Africa at the Africa Netball Cup semifinals in Namibia today.
Despite losing 42-41 against Namibia during their last group match, the Zim Gems secured their semifinal spot. South Africa upped their pace against a determined Zambia ,making it 3 from 3 in this competition and advance to the semifinals. South Africa won with a huge margin of 71-48 against Zambia.
Additionally, the Proteas is the most successful team in this competition with 3 tittles. They will be looking forward to book their place in the final to fight for a record breaking 4th title.
The Zim Gems will be looking forward to secure a final spot to snatch their second title in this competition.The SPAR Proteas last won the title in 2021 beating Uganda while Zim Gems triumphed in 2015.
Meanwhile, Malawi is set to face Uganda in the second semifinal of the Africa Netball Cup. Malawi will be looking forward to advance to the final and win their 3rd title while Uganda is looking forward to secure a final spot and win their 4th title.
The Malawians were the first ever nation to win Africa Netball Cup in 2010, before defending it in 2012 to secure their back to back triumphs. Uganda’s last in was in 2014, 2017, 2018 and finished as runners up in 2021.
Semifinal Fixture
SF1; South Africa –Zimbabwe [1200]
SF2; Uganda –Malawi [1400]
Playoffs
Zambia –Namibia [1600]
Kenya –Eswatini [1800]