JOHANNESBURG – The Namibian women’s cricket team resumed training in Windhoek over the weekend, after their season had been interrupted by the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Players had their temperatures checked before being granted entry into the Wanders sports grounds and were then required to follow hygiene and physical distancing protocols during training.

Bowler Eveleen Kejarukua said: “It feels amazing to be back, especially before the first lockdown, we were struggling with no training, with no cricket, no games and no tours. That actually broke most of our hearts, because you are used to a routine, you are used to being on the field, even if you miss classes to come to cricket. That’s how much this sport means to us.”

Assistant coach Gareth Cloete said it was difficult to resume after such a long break, but was adamant it was vital to be ready for competition.

“I think it’s important for them now as a group after the qualifiers that was played a few months ago – just to get back into the routine of things making sure we working hard,” said Cloete.

“You never know when the next assignment might be around the corner. With sports slowly returning around the world, it’s actually going to be in good state to make sure that we are ready for when any of those competitions arise.”

To date, Namibia has recorded more 600 Covid-19 infections and one death. However, there have been more than 25 recoveries, meaning the vast majority of cases are active infections. 

– Nampa/ANA