Namibia’s Desert Jewels will be hoping to redeem themselves in the 2023 Netball World Cup qualifiers when they face Botswana in today’s encounter. 

Their chances of proceeding to the next stage of the competition are slim. Even if they beat Botswana, Tanzania have to beat Zimbabwe on Thursday for Namibia to possibly progress.

Namibia began their journey in Pretoria, South Africa with a 54-40 win against Tanzania on Sunday, before going down 38-66 to South Africa on Monday and 41-45 against Zimbabwe yesterday. 

Zimbabwe led from the start, ending the first quarter with 16-11, the second quarter 30-21 and the third quarter 36-25.

Namibia’s coach Mary Waya said they lacked physical strength in the game but she was, however, happy with the progress that the players have made. 

She admitted that it was a tough encounter as the opponents are more experienced than them.

“I told the players that they have to be focused and trust each other. I knew the Zimbabweans are physically strong and we have to adapt to the way they play. Most of my players are not experienced but I am happy with the progress we have made in today’s match,” she said.

Botswana too have lost two matches thus far – 37-60 against South Africa and 41-49 to Zimbabwe. 

-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na