Netball South Africa (NSA) has unveiled a strong SPAR Proteas squad for the highly anticipated SPAR Challenge Test Series against the Malawi Queens. The series will be held at Ellis Park Arena, Johannesburg, from 31 October to 3 November 2024.
The 15-player squad will see a final selection of 12 announced by Head Coach Jenny Van Dyk at the pre-series media briefing on 29 October. According to international regulations, the initial 12-player roster will play the opening match, but Van Dyk can adjust the lineup for the remaining games.
SPAR Proteas Squad List:
- Shooters: Ine-Marí Venter, Rolene Streutker, Elmeré Van Der Berg, Owethu Ngubane, Nicholé Breedt
- Mid-Court: Khanyisa Chawane (C), Kamogelo Maseko, Refiloe Nketsa, Tarle Mathe, Jeanté Strydom
- Defenders: Jamie van Wyk, Boitumelo Mahloko, Karla Pretorius (VC), Nicola Smith, Ané Retief
Experienced Players Lead the Squad
The team will be led by captain Khanyisa Chawane, supported by veteran vice-captain Karla Pretorius, who has faced the Malawi Queens nine times since her debut in 2011. Chawane and shooter Ine-Marí Venter are also seasoned opponents, having played against Malawi multiple times.
New Coaching Duo Prepares for Their Debut
The upcoming test series marks the first international outing for the newly appointed coaching duo of Head Coach Jenny Van Dyk and Assistant Coach Zanele Mdodana. Van Dyk expressed confidence in her squad’s preparation, noting that their training camp starting 24 October would be essential for fine-tuning their strategy.
“We’ve been working hard on fitness levels and tactics. The pre-competition camp allows us to focus and refine our approach. We aim to start the series strong and showcase the work we’ve put in,” Van Dyk commented.
Mdodana, a former SPAR Proteas captain, described the experience as “surreal,” transitioning from playing against Malawi to now coaching the team. She emphasized the team’s determination to assert their status as Africa’s top netball nation.
“Malawi is a tough opponent, and we know they will bring their best. Our goal is to deliver solid performances, demonstrate our squad’s depth, and win all three matches convincingly,” Mdodana said.
A Renewed Rivalry Between African Giants
The SPAR Proteas, ranked fifth in the world, will face seventh-ranked Malawi in a thrilling three-match series. Historically, South Africa has dominated with 25 wins in 38 encounters, but Malawi remains a formidable challenger.
The series will be a key opportunity for the Proteas to reaffirm their dominance in African netball, having last faced and defeated the Malawi Queens in the 2020 SPAR Challenge.
Netball fans are eagerly awaiting the clash between these African powerhouses, with the Proteas aiming to solidify their position and Malawi determined to challenge their reign.
