Zimbabwe beats Zambia to qualify for 2023 Netball World Cup

Shingi Matibiri, Sports Reporter

PRETORIA – Zimbabwe have qualified for the 2023 Netball World Cup after a hard fought 59-41 victory over Zambia in the third place play off at Rembrandt Hall in Pretoria South Africa on Saturday.

Everything went according to script for Zimbabwe as the technical team reserved their best for Zambia after missing out on the opportunity to qualify against a formidable Malawi in the semi finals on Friday.

The duel was a tight contest as Zambia were fancying their chances against Zimbabwe after missing out following a defeat to South Africa on Friday but they found the Gems more determined with goal shooter Joice Takaedza playing with a nagging knee injury at her best to settle Zimbabwe’s nerves in the early quarters.

The introduction of Sharon Bwanali in the third quarter sealed the victory for Zimbabwe as her combination with Tafadzwa Matura was too much for Zambia to handle.

Zambia had the first goal but Zimbabwe quickly replied and took control of the match ending the first quarter four goals ahead at 16-12.

Zambia came back a more polished side in the second quarter reducing the areas but Zimbabwe regained control with the introduction of star player Tafadzwa Matura for an equally impressive Ursula Ndlovu Zimbabwe maintain a four goal lead to go into into halftime leading 30-26.

Zimbabwe shut the edge of the circle with Claris Kwaramba impressive in wing defence with Beulah Hlungwane, Felistus Kwangwa, Tanaka Makusha and Nicole Muzanenhamo all putting a very good shift.

This is Zimbabwe’s second consecutive qualification for the World Cup after the Liverpool 2019 World Cup.