Softball internationals in fine form for clubs
Thato Kala | Tuesday June 24, 2014 17:11
Bear’s internationals Malebogo Ramaphane, Tshepo Letsholo, Keabetswe Mhotsha and Melita Seabelo ensured the club remained on course to defend their crown while Shell Vivo National runners-up, Dinare made it after an outstanding performance by national team duo of Lobopo Otlhomile.
Another international combination saw Iponeng Molapong, Othusitse Molatlheng and Kelebogile Lesesere powering Wells to the tournament. The fourth team that qualified for the tournament in the south, Panthers, has no player in the national team. From the north, Rail Giants made it to the finals with national team players, Onneetse Seth and Pauline Tukisi.
National team manager, Same Molete said it is a plus that national team players will be active because of the tournament. She believes this will help prepare the team for the ISF Women’s World Softball Championships that roar to life on August 15 in Harlem, Netherlands.
“It is good because, in addition to the eight players from south, the two from northern side Rail Giants will also be active. This means they will be training and will also play in the tournament,” Molete told Mmegi Sport.
Out-of-school players in the national team go to a mini camp on Friday. The camp runs until July 6. “We have eight out of school players and those staying in Gaborone will be joining us after hours. So we will likely have about 12 players.”
Molete was impressed by the national team players’ performances over the weekend. Molapong, Molatlheng and Lesesere were influential as Wells demolished Vikings 8-0 in a Bracket Two encounter at the National Diamond on Saturday.