Queens through
Malawi Queens yesterday punched their ticket to the 2023 Netball World Cup after beating Zimbabwe’s Gems 62-41 in Cape Town, South Africa.
Following the win, Malawi are through to the final in which they face South Africa’s Spar Proteas this afternoon.
South Africa already qualified for the global showpiece and, therefore, the other slot will be filled by winner of the third-place match between Zimbabwe and Zambia this morning.
In a match monitored on SuperSport television, the Queens shrugged off some early lethargy which saw them trail 2-0 in the early stages, to work their way into the game and place the champagne on ice.
New Zealand-based gangly shooter Joyce Mvula was the conductor of the Queens’ orchestra, convering baskets freely while diminutive centre Takondwa Lwazi-Mtonga thrust brightly at the heart of the court.
Their passing was crisp and their movement sharp. Having weathered the early storm, they cut off Zimbabwe’s supply lines to their deadly attacking duo Tafadza Matura and Sharon Bwanali.
Malawi led 14-8 in the first quarter and at half time they were in the comfort zone as they led 32-18.
With the global showpiece slot seemingly secured, Queens coach Peace Chawinga-Kaluwa had the luxury of bringing changes which included the introduction of blossoming shooter Tendai Masamba.
Malawi led 44-28 in the third quarter and at the end of it all, the Queens extended the margin to a yawning 21-basket margin.
This was the fourth straight win for the Queens who won all their Group B matches against Zambia 61-49, Kenya 72-39 and e-Swatini 69-50.
